The New Music Ensemble at Grand Valley State University (Allendale, MI) takes inspiration from U.S. national parks on its fifth commercial recording, Dawn Chorus, out April 24 on Innova Recordings. In an ongoing project, the ensemble, under Director Bill Ryan, has commissioned over 20 composers to explore and “respond” to these incredible American treasures. This album features eleven of these new works by composers including Phil Kline, Molly Joyce, Patrick Harlin, Paula Matthusen, and Rob Deemer – all of whom visited the likes of Arches, Badlands, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone national parks. The ensemble has performed this music in the lands that inspired it on three national tours, with a fourth (and brand new commissions) planned for summer 2020.