Held alongside the lecture series On New Music, the ensemble takes the form of weekly sessions dedicated to collective improvisation. Rather than rehearsing a predetermined repertoire, each meeting functions as an independent artistic event in which participants explore collaborative music-making through improvisation, creative exercises, and the exchange of ideas and experiences.

The ensemble's practice unfolds both within and beyond the institutional setting, encouraging participants to engage with sound, the surrounding environment, and the process of collective music-making itself.

About the Facilitator

Alen Lee is a researcher, curator, and composer-performer based in Almaty. His practice lies at the intersection of open musical improvisation, experimental composition, and alternative notation. A graduate of the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), he studied music theory and composition with improviser Dr. Tim Feeney, and jazz performance under the guidance of Joe LaBarbera and Bennie Maupin. In recent years, Alen has performed in Kazakhstan with the qazaq indie supergroup and the performance artist Kokonja.

Participation is by open call. To be considered, please complete the application form by 17 July 2026. We kindly ask you to provide accurate contact information when submitting your application.