yMusic is an innovative American sextet chamber ensemble based in New York City, formed in 2008 by trumpeter CJ Camerieri and violinist Rob Moose. The ensemble, which includes a trumpet, flute, clarinet, violin, viola, and cello, has made significant strides in the contemporary music scene, releasing three studio albums of original compositions tailored specifically for their unique instrumentation. Their commitment to collaboration has seen them tour extensively with renowned artists such as José González, Bon Iver, and Paul Simon, showcasing their versatility and adaptability across various musical genres.
In 2015, yMusic collaborated with Ben Folds on his album “So There,” which marked a pivotal moment in their career as they began to gain recognition as both performers and composers. Their Carnegie Hall debut in 2016 further solidified their reputation, where they premiered works by celebrated composers Caroline Shaw and Chris Thile. This performance highlighted their ability to blend classical elements with contemporary music, appealing to a diverse audience.
The ensemble’s collaboration with Bruce Hornsby on his album “Absolute Zero” in 2019 led to further opportunities, including work on his subsequent album “‘Flicted” and a full album collaboration as BrhyM in 2024, titled “Deep Sea Vents.” This ongoing partnership underscores yMusic’s role as a vital contributor to the modern music landscape, bridging the gap between classical and popular music.
Most recently, yMusic has embraced their identity as composers, encouraged by Paul Simon to explore their own voice. Their self-titled album, released in May 2023, showcases their evolution as a self-contained ensemble, revealing a rich and spacious sound that defies genre boundaries. With a decade and a half of experience, yMusic continues to push the envelope, establishing themselves as a formidable force in contemporary chamber music.