The Borderlands Ensemble was formed in 2017 by Johanna Lundy, Ellen Chamberlain, Sarah Toy, Ann Weaver, and Robert Chamberlain. After many years of working together in an orchestral setting, they were ready to explore new concert formats and cultivate relationships with audiences and the community. Their performances aim to disrupt barriers imposed by classical music traditions, making classical music more engaging and relevant to all people. Past concerts have taken place at coffee houses, biker bars, art galleries, outdoors, and even a movie theatre. The group has collaborated with a variety of organizations and artists, including the Museum of Contemporary Art-Tucson, the Consulate of Mexico in Tucson, UNAM-Tucson, El Crisol Mezcal Bar, Galeria Mitotera, the Loft Cinema, Tohono Chul, El Casino Ballroom, Jessica Gonzales, The Century Room, Hotel Congress, Saint Charles Tavern, the Mexican Repertoire Initiative, and others.
The ensemble is invested in working for equity in the borderlands community and the field of classical music. Concert programs primarily feature music by Mexican and American composers, and are presented at low or no cost to audience members. Borderlands Ensemble loves collaborating with artists, poets, historians, and venues to create memorable performances and hopes you’ll join them for a concert!
Current members: Ellen Chamberlain, Joseph Rousos-Hammond, and Laura Cásarez, violins; Emily Chao, violin and viola; Ann Weaver, viola; Robert Chamberlain, cello; José Luis Puerta, guitar; Johanna Lundy, horn.