Opening Nights Delights with Delirium Musicum

The sounds of strings will swell on Jan. 18 at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall at Florida State University as the self-conducted chamber orchestra, Delirium Musicum, takes the stage.

Delirium Musicum was formed and founded in 2018 by violinist Etienne Gara. Gara sought a musical experience where a generation of young musicians could join together to create boundary-bending performances unlike what the musicians themselves and audiences alike were accustomed to.

With 18 musicians living in Los Angeles but hailing from nine countries and four continents, Gara leans into the diversity of the group when cultivating the artistic tapestry that is their music.

“There are so many differences between each of us that it benefits the music by bringing forth many ideas in a group prone to creativity,” said Gara. “Through the music, we cherish those differences rather than try to erase them, and because of this, we are able to open our hearts as artists.”

The orchestra’s music has been tailored to a variety of experiences ranging from worldwide tours to intimate creative projects. Most recently, the group celebrated the success of their debut album “Seasons” with Warner Classics, which was released in April of 2023.

Gara views the musicians as “misfits” in the best way, meaning those who sought something more innovative than a traditional orchestra or teaching position. This thinking extends to the music they create, which is distinctive, mesmerizing and even daring in nature.

Rather than fitting into the mold of classical orchestra experiences, Delirium Musicum thinks outside of the box. The musicians find themselves inspired by old masters and interpreting them in new ways. They veer even more toward contemporary compositions.

“We don’t care too much about the classical codes. Instead, we want audience members to feel comfortable like they are in their living room listening to family playing music,” said Gara. “That’s where the electricity happens — when they are comfortable enough to appreciate the music and be moved by it.”

Being a relatively small orchestra, the members are able to move around and create a symbiotic relationship with their listeners. As the name states, the intention is for audience members to experience excitement and ecstasy through the music.

“What we hope everyone experiences sharing a moment through music, a language that everyone has access to,” said Gara.

For more information on Delirium Musicum and other Opening Nights performances, visit OpeningNights.fsu.edu.