Since 2005, Pianists Vassa Shevel and Inessa Zaretsky, founders of the Phoenix Chamber Ensemble, have provided New York City with highly affordable concerts. The ensemble has sought to share its passion for the classical repertoire in a warm, intimate setting. With the generous support of the Blavatnik Family Foundation, the ensemble has, over the course of over a decade, become a vital part of the New York classical community, presenting more than 40 public concerts at Manhattan’s Center for Jewish History. The ensemble has garnered a devoted following with its innovative programming and sensitive interpretations and has also collaborated with numerous acclaimed guest artists, including clarinetist David Krakauer, the Grammy-nominated Enso Quartet, the Tesla Quartet, members of the Jasper String Quartet, the New York Little Opera Company, the Metropolitan Opera and New York City Ballet. The Phoenix Chamber Ensemble has also earned an international reputation, presenting concerts in Russia, Poland, Italy and other European venues.