Hotel Elefant is a contemporary music ensemble dedicated to the works of innovative, living composers.

Formed in 2011 by composers Leaha Maria Villarreal and Mary Kouyoumdjian, Hotel Elefant ambitiously presents new music through commissions, performances, and moderated discussions between composers, performers, and audiences. Committed to modern sounds and sonic explorations, this vibrant ensemble brings a keen awareness of today’s music to the general public and highlights those living composers who are blurring lines, pushing boundaries, and fostering creativity.

With a flexible instrumentation of over fifteen musicians, members of this progressive group have performed across the nation and around the world. Their music has taken them to destinations in Poland, Israel, and the U.K. and to such cities as San Francisco, Los Angeles, Boston, and Montreal. Each artist brings a unique perspective and passion to their field, working with such luminaries as the Bang on a Can All-Stars, Imani Winds, and the Chicago Opera Vanguard, among others. Valuing the development and expression of new music, these engaging performers come together under the auspices of Hotel Elefant.