Florestan Trio

They couldn't have chanced on a more fitting name when they decided to form a trio thirteen years ago. Florestan, Schuman's exuberant energetic alter ego, fits perfectly with the infectious pleasure that this piano trio radiates when it performs. They approach each of the scores, from Haydn to Judith Weir, with equal enthusiasm and an understanding of the style. In this concert they present several highlights of the French repertory that have a striking link. Ravel modelled his Piano Trio on Saint-Saëns' First Piano Trio. Fauré, a pupil of Saint-Saëns and Ravel's teacher, wrote his trio at his publisher's request in an attempt to repeat the success of Ravel's trio. During a lecture-recital given prior to the concert, the Florestan trio explains precisely what makes this Piano Trio so special. In examining a few fragments, which they will play live, they unravel the score and illustrate just how Ravel approaches the themes, harmonies and rhythms. This gives you a more profound insight into the work. When you listen to Ravel's masterpiece again in full during the concert, it will be a completely new experience!