DownEast New Music brings acclaimed young artists to 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 500 people on MDI, Blue Hill, Stonington, and Waldoboro, for two summers DownEast New Music has brought thoughtfully curated programs of diverse composers from all over the world to Maine. Last season, we also commissioned a 20 minute ensemble work by Waldoboro composer Conrad Winslow reflecting on the history and relationship between Maine’s agricultural landscape and people.

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 grants from the Onion Foundation and Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors. Thanks to a successful first season, we are happy to report that we have begun planning season 3 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!