Composer Anthony Braxton assembled the Tri-Centric Ensemble to perform his most ambitious and visionary works -- operas, multimedia collaborations with computer and video graphic artists, and extended explorations of new musical concepts and techniques. The New York based group comprises a pool of some 40 virtuoso players from both sides of the Atlantic, each of whom has his or her own track record as a creator and interpreter of new and improvised music. The ensemble is available for single or extended performances:

• The full ensemble plays three performances over the course of three evenings, each devoted to a different aspect of Braxton's works for large ensemble. Alternatively, a core group of 12 or 13 ensemble members collaborate with local groups and players to form an ad hoc but well-guided full ensemble. The ensemble also splinters itself into various smaller groups -- any number between 1 and the full 40 -- to perform Braxton's compositions for those combinations. This body of work serves as a "chamber" repertoire, affording the most intimate, relaxed yet intensive explorations of the art of new composition and improvisation.

• Soloists, duos, trios, quartets, and larger chamber groups play in afternoon performances, showcasing the ensemble's wide range of instruments and virtuoso musicians.

• Lectures and workshops by Anthony Braxton and the ensemble's other artist-scholars, and by celebrated guest American and European journalists and scholars about the music it makes, are often available between each afternoon and evening concert.