Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

The Notre Dame String Trio is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique sound and exceptional performances for over a decade. The trio was founded in 2004 by three accomplished musicians, violinist Tricia Park, violist Mina Fisher, and cellist Katie Chambers, who were all graduate students at the University of Notre Dame at the time. Tricia Park, originally from California, began playing the violin at the age of three and went on to study at the Juilliard School and the New England Conservatory. Mina Fisher, a native of South Korea, started playing the viola at the age of six and later studied at the Cleveland Institute of Music and the New England Conservatory. Katie Chambers, from Indiana, began playing the cello at the age of four and went on to study at the Eastman School of Music and the University of Notre Dame. The trio quickly gained recognition for their exceptional musicianship and unique sound, which is characterized by their use of gut strings and historical performance practices. They have been praised for their ability to bring new life to classical works and for their innovative programming, which often includes lesser-known works alongside more familiar pieces. Over the years, the Notre Dame String Trio has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the United States and abroad, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Seoul Arts Center. They have also been featured on numerous radio programs, including NPR's Performance Today and WQXR's Midday Masterpieces. In addition to their performances, the trio is also committed to education and outreach. They have conducted masterclasses and workshops at universities and music schools across the country and have worked with young musicians through programs such as the Sphinx Organization and the National Youth Orchestra of the United States. The Notre Dame String Trio has received numerous awards and accolades for their performances and recordings. In 2008, they were awarded the prestigious Chamber Music America Residency Partnership Grant, which allowed them to work with young musicians in underserved communities. They have also been recognized for their recordings, including their debut album, "Trios from Our Homelands," which was named one of the top classical albums of 2011 by NPR. One of the highlights of the trio's career was their performance at the 2015 Smithsonian Folklife Festival, where they were featured as part of the "On the Move" program, which celebrated the migration of people and cultures. The trio performed a program of music that reflected the diverse cultural influences that have shaped their sound, including works by composers from Korea, China, and the United States. Another notable performance was their collaboration with the Grammy-winning vocal ensemble Roomful of Teeth in 2017. The two groups performed a program of works that combined classical and contemporary styles, including a world premiere by composer Caroline Shaw. The Notre Dame String Trio continues to be a leading force in the world of classical music, known for their exceptional musicianship, innovative programming, and commitment to education and outreach. Their unique sound and approach to classical music have earned them a devoted following and a place among the most respected ensembles of their generation.

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