Beethoven + Now

Well, here we are, home on the East Coast for a couple of days between week two and three of our Beethoven Cycle, live on the air of WFMT Radio in Chicago, with host Kerry Frumkin. We have played the Beethoven Cycle several times this fall - in Burlington, VT, as well as Newburyport, MA, BUT - live on the air sure feels different. We have a supportive studio audience each week - old friends who drive from points far and near. Each week we play Beethoven, sandwiched around a work written for the trio by a living composer. First week was Augusta Read Thomas - she was in the studio with us, speaking on the subject of Beethoven and the influences of past composers on her current work. The second week featured John Harbison, who spoke from his home in Cambridge, MA, about his trio as well as his opinions about the Op. 70 #2 trio. Next week - Daron Hagen, Op. 1 #3 and the Archduke. We can't wait! In between the WFMT broadcasts, we play regular trio concerts, as well as do some work with Ravinia. We did have a chance to walk around the millennium Park in Chicago and to stand under "The Bean". Looking good!