The works on this release represent 20th century piano duo repertoire that is inspired by dances from different nationalities. Even in the works that do not have a specific dance in their title, there is nonetheless the implication of a strong dance-like character. The Ehlen-Tai Piano Duo had its beginnings at the University of Illinois and joined the Steinway Artist Ensemble Roster in 2012. The ensemble performs in recitals all across America.

Virtuoso bandoneon, accordion, and accordina player Julien Labro is one of today’s most versatile musicians. Sought after by jazz and classical musicians alike, here he pairs with the progressive classical ensemble Spektral Quartet for a crossover project containing classical, jazz and latin elements. Founded in 2010, the Spektral Quartet’s forward-thinking reportorial choices and approach to performance has earned it a wide and loyal following.

Timothy Ehlen has performed extensively in the Unites States and Europe as a soloist and chamber player. After his Lincoln Center debut in Alice Tully Hall, The New York Times raved that his “playing was filled with elegant personality…” New York Concert Review hailed his recital at Carnegie Hall, presented on the ProPiano Recital Series, as “an absolutely remarkable tour-de-force.”

Winner of the 2011 Israeli Ministry of Culture Outstanding Ensemble Award, the Israeli Chamber Project brings together some of today's most distinguished young Israeli musicians for chamber music concerts and educational and outreach programs both in Israel and abroad. A dynamic ensemble comprising of strings, winds, harp and piano, the Israeli Chamber Project has quickly made a name for itself through it's passionate musicianship and creative programming. In North America, the Israeli Chamber Project has appeared at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, the Morrison Artists Series in San Francisco, and has been featured on NPR's Performance Today.

Classical Music

Concertmaster of the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra, Natanel Draiblate is an accomplished and rising star in the violin world. On this recording he performs works by Mendelssohn, Prokofiev and Grieg with pianist Lura Johnson.

Tobachi is a collection of string quartets written by students from the Chickasaw Nation. These pieces, classical in instrumentation, are written by young students, but deliver an emotional impact far beyond their years. A unique perspective on life in 2013 makes for a compelling listen. The Linden Quartet performs these quartets with grace and eloquence as well as spirit and drive, in a manner that directly reflects the wishes of the composers. Each composer was present at the recording session, and the interaction between the Linden Quartet and the composer ensured that each piece was captured and performed exactly as the composer wished.

Described as a “brilliant young classical guitarist” by the DC Examiner, Benjamin Beirs brings new life to a timeless classical instrument. A performer, teacher and composer, Beirs can be found anywhere from the concert stage to an elementary school, playing to a diverse and appreciative audience.

Cleveland guitarist Jason Vieaux adds to his list of stellar recordings with this alluring program of works by Argentina’s master of the tango... The irresistible performances and crystal-clear sound — from Cleveland-based Azica Records — make this a don’t-miss disc. Grade: A

-- Donald Rosenberg, Cleveland Plain Dealer

Classical Music

Classical Music

Classical Music

Classical Music

Classical Music

Classical Music