Melos Ensemble

The Melos Ensemble, founded in 1950 in London, is a pioneering chamber music group renowned for its versatile instrumentation and exceptional musical rapport. Comprising some of the finest musicians of the time, including violist Cecil Aronowitz, clarinetist Gervase de Peyer, flutist Richard Adeney, and cellist Terence Weil, the ensemble was known for its flexible lineup, ranging from four to twelve musicians. The Melos Ensemble gained international acclaim for its collaboration with Benjamin Britten, who composed the chamber music for his iconic "War Requiem" specifically for the group and conducted its premiere in Coventry. Their discography spans a wide range of classical repertoire, from the works of Mozart and Beethoven to lesser-known composers like Franz Reizenstein. The ensemble's recordings, available on platforms like Music Preserved, offer a rich tapestry of historically and artistically significant performances, making them a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts.