Directed by Dr. Nick Rissman, Lamar University’s new-music ensemble has been exciting, challenging and entertaining the imaginations of southeast Texans for seven years with everything from the latest modern classical music to Hindustani Rāgas from the Punjab.

With a programming mission that defies categorization, past concerts have included such diverse themes as mid-twentieth century European Avant-Garde, the art of the television and radio jingle, and modern vocal music, to name a few. 

With generous support from Mobiloil Federal Credit Union, audiences have listened to provocative pre-concert lectures by special guests, including some of the most remarkable composers of our time, such as:

• Grammy-Award-winning Libby Larsen
• Guggenheim Fellow Maurice Wright
• Film and television composer David McHugh (Moscow on the Hudson; ABC News; McDonalds)
• Southwest classicist Rodney Rogers
• Legendary classical Indian musician Ustad Nizami
• Grammy-Award-winning Chen Yi

MobilOil Federal Credit Union

Two Performances Each Season

Lamar faculty, students and guest performers gather twice each season, performing in the architecturally striking atrium of the Mobiloil Federal Credit Union at Major and Delaware roads in Beaumont.

Following each program, the audience is invited to meet distinguished guest-artists, faculty and students in a lively reception. All performances are free to the public.