Det Åbne Ensemble^DK

Det Åbne Ensemble is an orchestra, where everyone – regardless of musical experience – can take part in collective exploration. The focus is not on performance, but on process: a creative and exploratory space in constant motion. 
 
When the ensemble takes over Platform, a range of instruments – double bass, vibraphone, synthesizer, piano and more – are placed on stage and played by the participants, who together create a shared sensory environment. In front of each instrument is a lamp: when the light turns on, you play. The lights are controlled via a mixer by a randomly chosen member of the ensemble, who temporarily takes on the role of conductor. 
 
Each improvisation is framed by Thomas Mulcahy and Johan S. Wieth from Uden Ord, kingtommi and Iceage through time limits and simple musical constraints – such as playing only one note, only short or long tones, fixed tempo or rubato. 
 
As an audience member, you are not invited to a concert, but to gain insight into a living, collective process. 
 
Det Åbne Ensemble is a workshop programme for users of the psychiatric services in Copenhagen. The project is based on the idea that simple and clear musical constraints can open a safe and meaningful shared space with moments of high artistic quality. Here, participants develop a musical language together and experience how their contributions are received, amplified, and activated by others. 
 
Det Åbne Ensemble collaborates with the National Centre for Arts and Mental Health, which works with participatory art focusing on mental wellbeing, and the Rhythmic Music Conservatory (RMC). The project is supported by the Roskilde Festival Foundation.