The Institute for New Music functions as the nerve center of all contemporary music activities at the Bienen School of Music.

Founded in 2012, the Institute presents numerous events over the course of the academic year—from residencies of visiting ensembles and composers to workshops, lectures, and masterclasses, to the biennial conference/festival NUNC!

Several critical assets make Northwestern an ideal site for a major new music initiative. These include a corps of talented performance students interested in new music; a strong composition program; the Michael Ludwig Nemmers Prize in Music Composition, which regularly brings world-renowned composers to campus; the Northwestern Music Library, which contains an unparalleled and internationally renowned archive of printed music composed since 1945; and proximity to Chicago’s vibrant new music scene.

New Music Ensembles

Bienen Contemporary/ Early Vocal Ensemble
Contemporary Music Ensemble

Upcoming Events

Festivals & Series

April 5, 2024 7:30pm

New Music Student Showcase

Galvin Recital Hall

Bienen Ensembles

April 20, 2024 7:30pm

Contemporary Music Ensemble

Galvin Recital Hall

Festivals & Series

May 2, 2024 7:30pm

Erin Lesser, flute

McClintock Choral and Recital Room

Festivals & Series

May 14, 2024 7:30pm

Ensemble Linea

Regenstein Master Class Room

Festivals & Series

May 16, 2024 7:30pm

Ensemble Linea

Regenstein Master Class Room

Bienen Ensembles

May 17, 2024 7:30pm

Contemporary Music Ensemble

Galvin Recital Hall

Bienen Ensembles

June 1, 2024 3:00pm

Bienen Contemporary/Early Vocal Ensemble and University Chorale

Galvin Recital Hall

Expanding educational offerings in modern music

The Institute for New Music organizes an array of major cultural and educational events, including symposia, festivals, workshops and residencies. Each of these activities provides students with opportunities to interact with and learn from prominent figures in the new music world.

Music Library

The Northwestern University Music Library is internationally renowned for its extensive collection of contemporary scores composed since 1945 as well as its original manuscripts, including the notable John Cage collection.

Explore the Collection

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New Music Ensembles

Bienen Contemporary/ Early Vocal Ensemble
Contemporary Music Ensemble