DownEast New Music aims to bring acclaimed young artists to Downeast Maine for exciting and engaging performances of new chamber music. 

We aim to present thoughtful programming showing the breath and beauty that exists in the music of today. Through presenting performances by accomplished local and international musicians, we work to enrich Downeast Maine's lively arts community with a vibrant array of new sounds that surprise, delight, and emotionally impact audiences. Contemporary music represents a way for Western classical music to more directly engage with today's ideas, themes, and communities. With innovative combinations of instruments, new perspectives, and diverse voices, DownEast New Music shows a side of contemporary chamber music that delights and inspires our audience.

Reaching more than 250 people on MDI and in Blue Hill, our July 2023 inaugural season comprised four concerts of chamber music, featuring two different programs. The composers featured included American, Jamaican, Hungarian, and Australian composers ranging from their early 30s to their late 90s. DownEast New Music’s 2024 season will include a commission of a new ensemble work by Waldoboro composer Conrad Winslow.

DownEast New Music is co-directed by Clare Monfredo and Edward Kass. You can read more about our mission and goals here. Our first season was supported by individual contributions, ticket sales, and a grant from the Onion Foundation. Thanks to a successful first season, we are happy to report that we have begun planning season 2 with a small surplus in our budget.

If you wish to support our work bringing new musical voices to DownEast Maine, please click here to Donate or Contact Us. We'd love to hear from you!