About the Center for 21st Century Music
At the forefront of what’s next in sound
For more than fifty years, the University at Buffalo Department of Music has championed creative artists pushing the boundaries of contemporary composition and performance. Building on that legacy, composer David Felder founded the Center for 21st Century Music in 2006—now a vibrant hub for new ideas, daring works and global collaboration.
- June in Buffalo — UB’s internationally recognized festival for emerging composers.
- Slee Sinfonietta Chamber Orchestra — a resident ensemble performing groundbreaking repertoire.
- The Wednesday Series — performances, lectures and workshops that connect students with leading artists.
Dedicated to creating and producing new work, the Center fosters exploration and risk-taking while upholding the highest artistic standards. It’s where composers, performers and scholars shape the sound of the future.
Guest conductors and collaborators have included James Baker, Brad Lubman, Matthias Pintscher, Gil Rose, Harvey Sollberger, Robert Treviño and Charles Wuorinen.
Affiliated ensembles such as Arditti Quartet, JACK Quartet, Ensemble Linea, SIGNAL and others regularly premiere new works in partnership with UB.
The Center proudly co-sponsors musical experiences that extend UB’s creative reach across Western New York:
- A Musical Feast – blending contemporary and classical music with poetry and dance.
- Burchfield Penney Art Center – collaborating on performances that celebrate regional art and innovation.
- Genkin Philharmonic – a UB-founded ensemble uniting rock, jazz, and contemporary composition.
- Pausa Art House – a boutique venue spotlighting Buffalo-based musicians and artists.
The Center thrives through the vision and generosity of donors, foundations and friends—including the Aaron Copland Fund for Music, Alice M. Ditson Fund, Amphion Foundation, BMI Foundation, Cameron Baird Foundation, and the College of Arts and Sciences.
Your support helps sustain performances, residencies and the next generation of composers.