Duo Contracello is a classical music ensemble that consists of two cellists, Martina Barlotta and Lucia D'Anna. The ensemble was founded in 2012 in Italy, where both members were born and raised. Martina Barlotta began playing the cello at the age of six and went on to study at the Conservatory of Music in Bari, Italy. She later continued her studies at the Hochschule für Musik und Tanz Köln in Germany, where she earned a Master's degree in cello performance. Lucia D'Anna also started playing the cello at a young age and studied at the Conservatory of Music in Naples, Italy. She then went on to study at the Hochschule für Musik und Tanz Köln, where she earned a Master's degree in cello performance as well. The two cellists met while studying at the Hochschule für Musik und Tanz Köln and quickly discovered a shared passion for chamber music. They decided to form Duo Contracello, with the goal of exploring the rich repertoire of cello duets and bringing their unique interpretation to audiences around the world. Since its founding, Duo Contracello has performed in numerous prestigious venues and festivals throughout Europe and Asia. Some of their most notable performances include appearances at the Festival dei Due Mondi in Spoleto, Italy, the Seoul Arts Center in South Korea, and the Konzerthaus Berlin in Germany. In addition to their live performances, Duo Contracello has also released several critically acclaimed recordings. Their debut album, "Contracello," features works by Bach, Vivaldi, and Piazzolla, among others, and was praised by critics for its "impeccable technique" and "deep musicality." Their second album, "Duo Contracello Live," was recorded during a concert at the Teatro alla Scala in Milan and features works by Beethoven, Brahms, and Shostakovich. Duo Contracello has received numerous awards and accolades for their performances and recordings. In 2014, they were awarded the prestigious "Premio Abbiati" by the Italian music critics' association for their outstanding contribution to the world of classical music. They have also been featured in several major music publications, including Gramophone and The Strad. Despite their success, Martina Barlotta and Lucia D'Anna remain committed to their mission of bringing the beauty and richness of cello duets to audiences around the world. They continue to perform regularly and are currently working on their third album, which will feature works by contemporary composers. In conclusion, Duo Contracello is a classical music ensemble that has made a significant impact on the world of chamber music. Founded by two talented cellists, Martina Barlotta and Lucia D'Anna, the ensemble has performed in numerous prestigious venues and festivals and has received critical acclaim for their recordings. Their dedication to exploring the repertoire of cello duets and bringing their unique interpretation to audiences around the world has earned them a well-deserved place among the most respected chamber music ensembles of our time.

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