Zodiac Trio

Taking full advantage of the unusual instrumentation of clarinet, violin and piano, the Zodiac Trio are at the forefront of innovative programing, heralded as ‘a breathtaking ensemble of virtuosity and sensitivity’ (Radio France). Famed for their winning combination of 20th-century classics and trailblazing new works, the Zodiac Trio brings a similarly exciting program to Duke Arts that includes the group’s trademark interpretation of Bartók’s Contrasts. This piece shares an unexpected tie-in with another work in this program. The Zodiac Trio presents a tribute to the legendary tunes of the King of Swing, Benny Goodman, who was one of the musicians responsible for the creation of Bartók’s revered work. Goodman commissioned Contrasts with violinist Joseph Szigeti, and the pair performed its premiere with Bartók himself at the Carnegie Hall piano in 1940. Alongside these works are chamber arrangements of a jazz-inspired symphonic poem by Gershwin and a rhythmic orchestral reimagining of a Mexican dance by Marquez. The program is completed with the Serenade for Three by the comedy genius Peter Schickele.