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. 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 will fully explore the possibilities created when shared artistic experience combines with community interest. Our vision is that through Iris Collective’s collaborations, the greater Memphis area will be a model for artistic and civic engagement for communities across the country.