Our Story
Born from the global isolation and upheaval of 2020, Solidaire emerged as a powerful artistic response that celebrates human creativity, resilience, equity, and connection. Flutist Jennifer Grim and percussionist Svet Stoyanov unite through their distinct life paths, rich musical backgrounds, and expansive sonic imaginations to create a duo that defies convention and expectation. Their performances are marked by fearless expression, technical mastery, and a deep commitment to storytelling through sound.
Solidaire is dedicated to curating bold, transformative musical experiences that invite audiences into profound engagement with the art of music. In May 2024, Solidaire presented a compelling program at National Sawdust in Brooklyn, featuring the New York premiere of Paola Prestini’s The Six Seasons of Trees and new arrangements of Philip Glass’s Opening, joined by acclaimed cellist Jeffrey Zeigler.
At Festival Napa Valley, Solidaire captivated audiences with performances that included works by Tōru Takemitsu, Philip Glass, and Astor Piazzolla, showcasing their unique blend of flute and percussion. Additionally, they engaged young audiences through the Novack Concert for Kids, highlighting their commitment to music education.
Solidaire proudly serves as the ensemble-in-residence at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, where Jennifer Grim and Svet Stoyanov also lead as Co-Directors of the Chamber Music Program. In this role, they shape the next generation of collaborative artists through visionary programming, mentorship, and interdisciplinary performance.
Beyond their home institution, Solidaire extends their impact through dynamic university residencies—offering masterclasses, lecture-demonstrations, and performances that inspire young musicians to explore the boundaries of sound and expression.
Who We Are
Jennifer Grim
Renowned flutist Jennifer Grim's illustrious career spans the globe, captivating audiences with her "deft, smooth" performances. Her achievements include decades with the Zéphyros Winds and the New York Chamber Soloists, collaborations with prestigious ensembles, and a soloist role with various symphonies. Her recent album "Through Broken Time" garnered praise for its meticulous execution and diverse repertoire, earning a spot in the New York Times' recommended list. Additionally, she holds the position of Professor and Chair of the Department of Instrumental Performance at the University of Miami's Frost School of Music and actively contributes to the music community as President of Chamber Music America and the National Flute Association.
Svet Stoyanov
Acclaimed Bulgarian percussionist Svet Stoyanov was praised by The New York Times for his “understated but unmistakable virtuosity” and “winning combination of gentleness and fluidity.” A winner of the Concert Artists Guild International Competition, Svet has performed as a soloist with numerous leading American orchestras, at venues such as Carnegie Hall. He has commissioned major Concerti, including Jennifer Higdon’s Duo Duel and Mason Bates’ Sideman. Svet’s latest project is a Violin-Percussion Concerto by Christopher Theofanidis, co-commissioned by the Colorado and Seattle Symphonies, among others. In addition to his performance career, Svet also heads the innovative percussion program at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music. His work champions the transformative power of music through performance, education, and collaboration.
Residency activities
Based on their unique and extensive combined experience in the worlds of music performance, business, administration, recording and much more, Jennifer and Svet offer an extensive variety of topics and presentations. Below is a sample of their most recent and sought after presentations. Please, feel free to request additional topics and to curate a custom experience for your organisation, based on its specific needs and focus.
Add a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging in Chamber Music
Jennifer Grim, Past-President of Board of Directors of Chamber Music America, leads a workshop on inclusivity in chamber music.
Playing together vs Playing Chamber Music: A masterclass on listening and communication
An in-depth session focused on critical listening and communication while playing with others. Playing together in the same “space” does not guarantee a global, holistic listening or having a deep connection with your musical collaborators. Learn how to bond with your colleagues and bring your best to every performance with meaningful eye contact, body movement, and effective cueing techniques.
It Is Art - one size doesn't fit all
Thoughts and ideas on creativity and being original…
THE ART (of Collaboration)
In this unique workshop, Solidaire explores the essential elements of chamber music collaboration, such as forming a new ensemble, repertoire selection, commissioning through consortiums, grant writing, marketing, and other significant aspects of the business of chamber music.
DIY - Your First Chamber Music Series
Explore how to build a chamber music series from the ground up. Starting with grant writing, repertoire selection, ensemble personnel, audience development, and much more, discover the unique ways of making a meaningful impact in your community.
Performer/Producer: understanding the differences while connecting the dots
In order to be a strong musician/performer, one already possesses some of the necessary skills to become a producer. This session focuses on understanding how to identify and utilize these, in order to build a wonderful musician into a competent producer. Additional content focuses on general guide in producing, insights on self-producing, and scenarios demanding that one only wears a single hat at a time.
Make it or break it: How can movement and rhythm coexist in harmony
Rhythmic integrity is at the heart of all music making and collaborations. Understanding the role of movement and its organic connection to rhythm can be crucial in dramatically elevating the musicianship of a singular soloist or an entire group.
