About Us

Ensemble 212 (two-one-two) is making a tremendous impact in New York’s classical music scene. Since its inception, they have performed an eclectic mix of repertoire from the Baroque era to the 21st century in chamber music, ensemble, and orchestra concerts. This collective of talented musicians has received critical acclaim for their innovative programming of works by living composers, exciting interpretations of the standard repertoire, and new arrangements and transcriptions by Founder and Artistic Director Yoon Jae Lee. Together, they have performed at diverse venues such as Merkin Concert Hall, Miller Theatre at Columbia University, New York City Center, The Stone curated by John Zorn, and the Good Shepherd-Faith Church at Lincoln Center.

Three core projects consist of Ensemble 212’s focus: The Young Artist Competition series to provide solo opportunities for emerging artists with a professional orchestra, The “New Music for Young Audiences” series dedicated to the educational outreach of new music, and “Cultural Convergences”, a dynamic series which expands the boundaries of programming through multicultural art forms. An innovation Ensemble 212 introduced to enhance the concert experience was the use of live program notes projected on a large screen, offering audiences real time analytical insight into the music.

In recognition for its contribution to excellence in New York’s diverse cultural scene, Ensemble 212 has been featured on 105.9 FM WQXR’s Q2 Music program, acknowledged by 93.9 FM WNYC & WQXR’s Salute The Arts *STAR* Initiative and funded by the New York State Council on the Arts and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs. Starting in 2021, Ensemble 212 will transition its focus on creating online educational content so that audiences throughout the world will be able to access our unique performance experiences.

Mission Statement

To inspire and engage classical music audiences through accessible, interactive, and educational performance experiences.

Vision Statement

Ensemble 212 will redefine the role of the 21st century chamber orchestra by becoming an online gateway for classical music audiences. We will be pioneers for using social media and technology as our primary means to broadcast our artistic output. Our innovative methods will focus on:

• Providing our Young Artist Competition winners a platform to springboard their career.
• Educating people about living composers and their music through our “New Music for Young Audiences” series.
• Expanding the boundaries of programming with a global menu of traditional and contemporary offerings, focusing on Korea’s musical heritage reflected through our “Cultural Convergences” series.

Ensemble 212 will exemplify musical excellence and continuously evaluate and evolve with the cultural needs of modern society so that we are a reflection of our world.

Administrative Staff

Young PARK, Ensemble 212 Young Artist Competition Director
Chen CHU, Media Coordinator
Mielle LEE, Public Relations Coordinator