Launched in March 2020, Ariel AVANT is the innovation arm of Ariel Artists, broadening our mission beyond the Ariel roster to the full field of classical music. AVANT hosts an annual “innovation competition,” each functioning as an open invitation to classical musicians and chamber ensembles to push forward the evolution of classical music as an art form. Concert presenters, industry thought leaders, and Ariel Artists roster artists all join forces to identify “best ideas” in the marketplace and reward them with development time, commissioning support, and performance opportunities. AVANT takes the competition beyond artistic mastery, focusing on relevance, innovative power, inclusive dialogue, diverse participation, and positive impact as metrics of excellence.