Athelas Sinfonietta Copenhagen is a fearless mouthpiece for the avant-garde, and champions innovative projects that overcome aesthetic limitation and physical boundaries.

Since its foundation in 1990 Athelas has been established as the foremost ensemble for contemporary music in Denmark. The core consists of 15 accomplished musicians, but Athelas plays in any format from solo-pieces to +25 musicians.

Over the years Athelas has collaborated with prominent soloists, conductors and composers such as Steve Reich, Arvo Pärt and Hans Abrahamsen. The ensemble has performed about 800 different works many of which have been first performances, and has produced an extensive discography. International cooperation is essential to Athelas, with resent appearances in England, Germany, France, Russia, Egypt and Iran among other countries.

Athelas Sinfonietta takes its name from the Athelas-Plant in Tolkiens Lord of the Rings; a medicinal herb that cures evil wounds and dark thoughts.