Fourth Wall Ensemble is rapidly gaining recognition as one of New York’s most innovative new vocal ensembles. The group’s performances have been praised for achieving “near musical perfection” with a sound that feels “otherworldly,” and evoking a “palpable fearlessness.” The ensemble is devoted to storytelling through sound and movement, bringing new works to life while also delving into the earliest traditions of vocal music. 

Founded in 2023, Fourth Wall Ensemble has quickly established itself with performances at Carnegie Hall, Merkin Hall at The Kaufman Music Center, and a collaboration with Death of Classical featuring works by Monteverdi and Caroline Shaw’s Partita for 8 Voices. Other highlights include a series at Power Station at Berklee NYC, a residency at Avaloch Farm Music Institute, and the ensemble’s debut album, created in partnership with GRAMMYÒ Award-winning trio Time for Three and five-time EMMYÒ Award-winning composer Jeff Beal (House of Cards).

Recently, Fourth Wall Ensemble expanded its presence with performances at National Sawdust, where Christopher Allen led the group in Dark Sky, a program featuring works by Kaija Saariaho, Caroline Shaw, and Andrew Yee. The ensemble returned to Carnegie Hall for Echoes of Ireland, performing alongside tenor Emmet Cahill, and has been re-engaged for the 2025-2026 season at Merkin Hall. The ensemble was also featured in the world premiere of SENSORIUM EX, a new opera by Paola Prestini and librettist Brenda Shaughnessy, presented by Beth Morrison Projects. This past November, Fourth Wall Ensemble embarked on its first West Coast tour. With over two weeks of performances, residencies, and programming, the ensemble brought its distinctive sound to new audiences. Upon their return to NYC, Christopher Allen led the group in a post-tour celebration concert and gathering in a private residence filled to capacity with supporters and friends.

In January 2026, Fourth Wall Ensemble presented Dark Sky in partnership with the San Francisco Exploratorium. This performance featured the ensemble, Christopher Allen, and sound artist Phil Moffa. Coming Spring 2026, Fourth Wall will present the East Coast premiere of The Beatitudes, composed by EMMYÒ Award-winning composer Jeff Beal (Rome, Monk). Inspired by the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount, this new work showcases the power of the human voice.

Under the Artistic leadership of Christopher Allen, Fourth Wall Ensemble continues to redefine vocal performance, blending tradition with bold new artistic explorations.