The American Modern Ensemble is a contemporary classical music ensemble based in the United States in New York City with the goal of premiering, performing and recording and commissioning the widest possible repertoire written by American composers. The group's focus is to celebrate and showcase American music and especially works written by living composers.[1] AME is also dedicated to education and outreach programs that expose communities to American music, and particularly to new music written by living composers. AME was founded in 2005 by American composer Robert Paterson,[2] who serves as the ensemble's Artistic Director, and his wife, Victoria Paterson, a violinist, who also serves as the ensemble's Executive Director.[3][4][5]
Since 2006, AME has held an annual composition competition for American composers (North, Central and South America).[6] Through 2011, this competition was for composers ages 18–35. Starting in 2012, awards are now given in three categories: Tier I (Young Artist), ages 22 and under; Tier II (Emerging), ages 18–35, and Tier III (Professional), all ages. Former winners from 2011 and past are now considered Tier II winners. Winners receive cash awards, archival recordings and performances of either their winning work or another work.
