The Improvising Chamber Ensemble is Dave Taylor, bass trombone; Vincent Chancey, French horn; Howard Johnson, bass clarinet; Jay Rosen, drums; Charlie Burnham, violin; and the composer on violin and vocals. The idea for the group was born out of Hertlein’s wish to hear more melody in improvised music than is common. The musicians are familiar with the world of classical music, straight-ahead jazz and free improvisation and have developed a unique orchestral sound leading to surprising ad hoc compositions which go far beyond the initial idea.