Thirty years ago Sunday, pianist Joseph Kalichstein, violinist Jaime Laredo and cellist Sharon Robinson performed at the White House for the inaugural celebration of former President Jimmy Carter. It marked a stunning collaboration of three artists who continue to balance their ensemble work with solo careers and recordings.
As a trio, they bedazzle audiences around the world, sometimes in larger configurations with other chamber instrumentalists. In 2002, they were Musical America’s choice as Trio Ensemble of the Year.
To commemorate their beginning as an ensemble, they return to Washington for a Fortas Chamber Music Series concert. They have chosen trios by Beethoven and Brahms and the world premiere of Richard Danielpour’s Piano Quartet, a co-commission by the Kennedy Center. They will be joined by violist Kirsten Johnson, winner of the 1997 Washington International Strings Competition.
“The Trio’s first concert together was serendipitous, a wonderful experience,” Kalichstein recalls. “Robert Shaw, a close friend of the Carters, was asked by them to gather musicians for the inaugural events. Jaime and Sharon remembered that I had played the piano parts to the Dvorak quartet and quintet with them in a program honoring Isaac Stern and suggested that Shaw contact me.
“We were surprised and pleased to learn that the Carters actually wanted classical music, a nice endorsement, and even though they were engaged in the reception line, they came over several times to say how much they liked our music.
“Since then, the relationship of our trio enjoys the comfort of an old friendship. We know what toexpect. We mesh together beautifully.”
IF YOU GO
The Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio with violist Kirsten Johnson commemorates its exact 30th anniversary, January 21, 2007 at 7:30 p.m.
Venue: Kennedy Center Terrace Theater
Tickets: $35 at 202-467-4600 or 800-444-1324
Info: kennedy-center.org
