The New England Symphonic Ensemble was given it's name by it's founder, the late Dr. Virginia Gene Rittenhouse.
NESE was first established at Atlantic Union College in Massachusetts in 1964 as a youth ensemble that eventually found it's current home at the Washington Adventist University as a cornerstone of the music programme. The ensemble began with a group of five students who gathered to play in Dr. Rittenhouse's living room. Dr. Rittenhouse was known for her prodigious musicianship and as a mentor to hundreds of alumni, one of whom (Dr. Preston Hawes) now carries forward her legacy as Artistic Director. Dr. Rittenhouse was the first person to receive a Doctorate from the Peabody Conservatory (1963) and fostered a lasting relationship with notable composer John Rutter, which contributed to the establishment of the annual Carnegie Hall series (MidAtlantic Productions), where musical scholars are invited to play along side professional musicians at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Under the founding direction of Dr. Rittenhouse, and the continued leadership of Dr. Hawes, the NESE has played concerts on nearly every continent around the world, including: South Africa, Canada, Mexico, Thailand, Italy, Austria, Romania, Russia, China, Australia, Iceland, Turkey, and many more.
Our Mission
The New England Symphonic Ensemble partners with a wide range of arts organisations to provide transformative experiences for both professionally driven musicians, and committed enthusiasts seeking to develop their artistic talent
We believe that understanding of the place of musical arts in society is relevant to each member of our local communities, whether we appreciate music or perform for the enjoyment of others because music is a universal language that crosses cultures, bringing people together. To this end, the New England Symphonic Ensemble values leadership, creativity, entrepreneurship, and community as we design programs that leave a lasting impression.
“Now, more than ever, the hearts of humanity need to be moved by the communal, healing power of music. Now, more than ever, we need to recognize that despite the horror and ignorance, the day will come when peace, tranquility, and love will reign. Now, more than ever, we need that time to be now.”
What We've Achieved
- Providing a platform for young musicians to play on world class stages.
- Encouraging musicianship for all interested in performing arts.
- Community driven and charitable support for arts initiatives
- Many world premiere performances of contemporary composers at Carnegie Hall, NY.
- Raising funds to provide musical students with international tour experience.