Inspired by the classical musicians who travelled throughout Europe to train and expand their practice, the ULYSSES network brings together eleven European institutions to promote and develop the professionalism of young composers.

Through the ULYSSES Ensemble, the ULYSSES network took a major step forward in 2017, directing its efforts towards young performers – while remaining focused on the music of today. A new ensemble of young musicians living in Europe is formed each year and travels through several academies and festivals affiliated with the ULYSSES network.

In 2024, the ULYSSES Ensemble will be composed of: Federico Altare (Italy) flute, Patricia Pinheiro (Portugal) oboe, Oleksandr Zhehalov (Ukraine) clarinet, Helena Ortuno (France) bassoon, Mari Tirkkonen (Finland) horn, Billur Ongun (Turkey)  trumpet , Chloé Ryo (France) trombone, Miharu Ogura (Japan) piano, Jiayu Luo (China) percussion, Ariane Bodin (France) and Alexis Perraud (France) violins, Eva Garnet (France) viola, Hortense Airault (France) cello, and Pietro Elia  Barcellona (Italy) double bass.

3 extra young musicians will join the ULYSSES ensemble: Takahiro Takayama (Japan), clarinet, from Ensemble NEXT, Edith Josse (France) harp, Roman Rondepierre (France), mandolin.

During the Manifeste festival academy, French conductor Pierre Bleuse will lead the Ensemble ULYSSES, with the participation and support of musicians from the Ensemble intercontemporain.