A Profound Tribute to Reflection and Resilience In the Mirror is an exquisite collection of works by contemporary women composers, masterfully interpreted by cellist Heather Tuach and pianist Yoko Misumi, both members of the celebrated Greenwich Trio. This album is not just a recording-it is an emotional journey born of reflection, healing, and hope. The title piece, composed by Liz Dilnot Johnson, was commissioned specifically for this project, setting the tone for an album steeped in introspection and serenity. The repertoire features original works and new arrangements by renowned composers including Dobrinka Tabakova and Jessie Montgomery, whose contributions enhance the album's contemplative spirit. Each piece carries it's own story, from Jocelyn Morlock's bird-inspired Halcyon to Jennifer Higdon's nocturnal reverie Nocturne. These works are tied together by a shared exploration of human resilience and the quiet strength found in moments of introspection. The project began during the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic and became deeply personal for pianist Yoko Misumi, who underwent successful cancer treatment during it's recording. Returning to the piano after her recovery, Misumi found solace and renewal in these compositions, describing the experience as "an emotional and musical healing." Highlights include: � Liz Dilnot Johnson's In the Mirror, a poignant four-movement work dedicated to personal loss and renewal. � Jessie Montgomery's Peace, composed during the pandemic and adapted for cello and piano with the composer's blessing. � Dobrinka Tabakova's Whispered Lullaby, an evocative piece inspired by Goethe's Faust. � Margaret Hubicki's lyrical Lonely Mere, a tribute to the serene landscapes of the Malvern Hills. The album is both a celebration of female creativity and a testament to music's power to comfort and inspire. Listening to In the Mirror is an opportunity to pause, reflect and take in moments of profound calm amidst life's turbulence. This is a must for admirers of contemporary chamber music, fans of women composers, and anyone seeking solace and beauty in music

With this programme, we want to show that these female composers - Josephine Lang and Ethel Smyth - can not only hold their own alongside an established and frequently performed song cycle by one of the "big names", Richard Strauss, but that their emotionality, quality and compositional accuracy are absolutely essential in the great canon of song literature, because that is where they undoubtedly belong, bringing a unique perspective and a message that is still far too little heard to this colourful genre in the most creative way. Duo Yvonne Prentki/Benedikt ter Braak

Introducing a revolutionary new CD that challenges the stereotypes and prejudices against the double bass. This tribute album showcases the full potential and versatility of the instrument, featuring compositions by renowned composers such as Myroslav Skoryks, John Rutter, Peteris Vasks, and Sergei Rachmaninov. Experience the warm, soft, and welcoming tone of the double bass as it takes center stage in this diverse collection of music. From the spiritual anthem of Ukraine, Melodie by Myroslav Skoryks, to the familiar choral sounds of John Rutter's The Lord Bless You and Keep You, this album is a love letter to the double bass and an invitation to embrace its songful and tuneful credentials.

Miriam K. Smith writes of her debut Azica release: “When a wave begins, it gathers momentum, so with this collection of music I see a gathering of energy (deep calling unto deep) into our modern era. I perceive this momentum in each of these composers’ works propelling the arts forward in their time. There are admirable qualities to all three composers featured in this collection in the way they have contributed to our current moment in time. Parisienne Ms. Boulanger’s influence is at the heart of so many modern composers and musicians. Students of Nadia’s are still among us carrying her contribution forward.

"Mr. Prokofiev gave us such unique harmonies and rich themes that evoke what we view as Russian. He was one of the Russian composers who spent time outside the Soviet Union and thus was able to have and receive influence from other locales and people. His time in Paris would bring him in contact with ballet master Diaghilev (Ballets Russes). Mr. Stravinsky could also be found in Paris and under the spell of Mr. Diaghilev, the ballet master who thought to bring in all the arts for his shows. Stravinsky risked offending audiences as he moved in the momentum set before him. [Incidentally, Ms. Boulanger did attend the Stravinsky debut of Firebird in Paris under the direction of Mr. Diaghilev.] Connections, influence, wave, momentum...And so, we continue today in the wave of momentum which began long ago....”