The Empyrean Ensemble is a professional new music ensemble in
residence with the music department. Although it’s not offered
as a class for undergraduates, it does collaborate with student
musicians, usually in winter quarter. For more information
please contact the ensemble’s director, Sam
Nichols.
The Empyrean Ensemble presents engaging, thought-provoking,
eclectic programs, enabling audiences to experience new musical
sensations delivered with high artistry by its seven
extraordinary core players—the finest new music performers in
California. Ensemble-in-residence at UC Davis, Empyrean has
premiered approximately 200 works and performed throughout
California, including appearances at many prominent music
festivals and concert series.
Empyrean Ensemble
Sam Nichols, director • Matilda Hofman, resident conductor
Musicians Playing—
Tod Brody, flute
Sandy McPherson, clarinet
Jennifer Ellis, harp Michael Seth
Orland, piano Chris Froh, percussion
Hrabba Atladottir, violin Ellen Ruth Rose, viola
Leighton Fong, cello
We’re grateful to the music department staff for all they
do to help the ensemble:
Christina Acosta, editor
Stephen Bingen, audio engineer
Nick Carvajal, librarian
Phil Daley, events and publicity manager
Thomas Dean, business assistant
Rudy Garibay, senior graphic designer
Josh Paterson, events and production manager
Caitlin Sapunor-Davis, stage manager
Matilda Hofman, whose conducting has been described as having “a
striking sense of purpose” and “taut and finely controlled”
(San Francisco Gate), has a busy and varied performance
schedule. She works regularly with a wide range of groups in
Europe, and in California, which she has made her home. Matilda
has performed at the Salzburg Festival, Berliner Festspiele,
Holland Festival, and Ruhrtriennale among others.
