TERRARIUM by Crash Ensemble

TERRARIUM—an immersive soundscape where geological history and human memory converge—arrives on 14th February 2025 via Crashed Records. Composed by Ann Cleare and performed by Crash Ensemble, the album invites listeners to experience the shifting landscapes of Ireland’s Midlands through a sonic lens.

Premiered live at New Music Dublin in 2024, TERRARIUM is the culmination of Cleare’s residency with Crash Ensemble. The work intricately maps the geological evolution of Ireland’s Midlands, transforming natural and industrial landscapes—from ice to lake to bog to urbanisation—into a dynamic sound world. The piece captures the forgotten and enduring myths that echo from this post-industrial terrain, creating an auditory portrait of time and place.


Created in collaboration with Kari Cahill and Hazel McCague from Lay of the Land, and with Laura Sheeran, Crash Ensemble’s filmmaker-in-residence.

TERRARIUM was co-commissioned by Crash Ensemble, Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival, and November Music. Crash Ensemble is supported by the Arts Council of Ireland and Dublin City Council and is a resident ensemble at the National Concert Hall, Dublin and at Kilkenny Arts Festival. The collaboration with Lay of the Land was also supported by an Agility Award from the Arts Council of Ireland.

Crash Ensemble is Ireland’s foremost new music ensemble.

crashensemble.com