Lontano

Lontano’s impact on the perception of new music has been profound and enduring. Since its inception in 1976 by conductor/composer Odaline de la Martinez and flautist Ingrid Culliford, Lontano has established an international reputation as one of the most exciting and versatile exponents of 20th and 21st century music.

Lontano commissions, produces, performs and records with the primary aim of bringing to the fore the work of contemporary British and American composers, women composers and Latin American classical repertoire. The ensemble’s sphere of activity includes contemporary opera, music theatre, concerts, workshops, education projects, tours, broadcasts and recordings. Performances feature some of the most noted, inventive and radical names in contemporary composition.

Lontano regularly broadcasts on television and radio and enjoys a close relationship with the British Broadcasting Corporation. In 1984 Odaline was the first woman to conduct a complete evening in the BBC Proms season.

An education and community program is integral to Lontano’s performing activity. The ensemble undertakes a diverse range of projects involving a broad spectrum of ages, cultures and social backgrounds. In 2002 Lontano was invited to become ensemble in residence at Kings College, London University. Here, they interact with young composers offering unparalleled opportunity for compositions to be rehearsed and performed by professional musicians.