Today we’d like to introduce you to Iris Collective
Hi Iris, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Iris Collective launched in 2022 with the desire to be eye-opening and more expansive in the world of orchestral and chamber music experiences. Our roots in this area, however, run deep. Iris Orchestra began in September 2000 as a bold experiment, founded by Michael Stern and Albert Pertalion in partnership with the City of Germantown. Iris Orchestra, under the direction of conductor Michael Stern, created an innovative model for American orchestras focusing on flexibility, non-hierarchy, and unrelenting passion for the highest standards of performance. The organization eventually transitioned from a municipally funded orchestra to an independent nonprofit funded primarily by private contributions and institutional grants.
Building on that legacy of radical innovation, this new iteration maintains Iris’ original mission to serve the community with the gift of exceptional music but shifts into an artist collective model to deepen shared artistic experiences with various constituents in the community. Iris Collective fully explores the possibilities created when shared artistic experience combines with community interest.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
COVID-19 almost shut the door on Iris permanently. In 2021, the organization was facing dwindling funds, the retirement of its founder and artistic director, Michael Stern, and struggling audience numbers. It was clear that things could not continue as they had for the previous 20 years. A change needed to be made. Taking a close look at what unique resources Iris could bring to the Memphis community and where that intersected with the greatest potential for impact, the decision to pivot to a community-first music organization that takes a collective approach to decision-making was born.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Iris Collective’s work is rooted in the belief that arts access is most effective when it moves beyond arts appreciation to arts participation. That is why the mission of Iris Collective is to facilitate meaningful connections with communities in Greater Memphis through collaborative performances that produce creative and exceptional music experiences.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Iris Collective is, as the name implies, the result of the collective effort of many individuals– Mary Javian, Iris’ Artistic and Strategic Advisor and long-time bass player, Rebecca Arendt, Iris’ Executive Director, Dr. Bo Adams, Iris’ Board Chair and the dedicated Board of Directors, the 150 rostered musicians who share their talents, ideas, and passion, the Iris Artist Fellows who run much of Iris’ daily music activities, the funders whose generous support makes everything Iris does possible, the host families and volunteers who help make Iris feel like a family, the staff who give so much of themselves everyday, Michael Stern, Iris’ former Artistic Director, and Iris’ community partners who give purpose to the work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://iriscollective.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iriscollectivememphis
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iriscollectivememphis/
- Twitter: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Firismemphis
