Hope College Press Releases

THIS PAGE HAS MOVED. THE NEW ADDRESS IS -
http://www.hope.edu/pr/pressreleases/

Great Performance Series Welcomes
Trend-Setting Ahn Trio

Posted October 22, 2002

HOLLAND -- They may not look like the average classical piano trio, but the Ahn Trio continues to impress critics while bringing new audiences to classical music.

The Ahn Trio will appear as part of the Hope College Great Performance Series on Wednesday, Nov. 6, at 8 p.m. in Dimnent Memorial Chapel.

Twins Maria and Lucia, and their sister Angella, are breathing new life into chamber music, especially as they venture into contemporary classical music.

Born in Korea, the sisters made their debut on Korean television, and then went to study at the prestigious Juilliard School of Music. Since then, they have stunned critics with their performances of classic piano trio works, while reaching out to new audiences with an appearance on MTV, and recordings of contemporary composers.

"A dominant musical gene has obviously left its imprint on the sisters Ahn," writes the "Los Angeles Times."

Their family success and fashion-model looks have landed them in a range of media, including "Vogue," "GQ," and "Time" magazines. They have not only appeared on MTV, but PBS and the Oxygen Channel as well.

Their performance at Hope College will feature two contemporary pieces written for the trio, and recorded on their latest CD, "Groovebox," scheduled for release on Oct. 22.

Their first three recordings have brought awards and praise. "Audio Magazine" said a Ravel piece was "never better played" than on their recording, and "BBC Music Magazine" says their second recording "will be one to return to again and again."

Their third release, called "Ahn-Plugged," after their MTV Unplugged appearance, showed their growing interest in contemporary music.

The trio's performances have been as successful as its recordings.

"Their technique is impressive, and they balanced unanimity and individuality in a spirit that is as the heart of chamber music," reviewed "The Washington Post."

In addition to new pieces by Maurice Jarren and Michael Nyman, the trio will also be performing Josephy Haydn's "Piano Trio in E-Flat Major, Hob. XV:29," and the young composer Kenji Bunch's "Swing Shift: Music for Evening Hours."

Tickets for the performance are $14 for regular admission, $12 for senior citizens and $5 for Hope College students. Tickets will be on sale on Monday-Wednesday, Nov. 4-6, at the DeWitt Center Box Office, and at the door if available.

Tickets may be purchased by credit card by calling the box office at 616-395-7890. The box office is in the theatre lobby of the DeWitt Center, located on Columbia Avenue at 12th Street.

Dimnent Memorial Chapel is located on College Avenue at 12th Street.

-30-