A pioneering oboe, bassoon, and piano ensemble, the Poulenc Trio has garnered international recognition over its 20-year history. With performances in 47 U.S. states and at prestigious music festivals around the world, including the Ravello Festival in Italy, the San Miguel de Allende Festival in Mexico, and the White Nights Festival in Russia, they have firmly established themselves as one of the most active and sought-after touring piano-wind ensembles in the country.
The trio’s performances have earned critical acclaim, with the New York Times praising their “elegant rendition” of Piazzolla’s tangos and The Washington Post commending them for doing their namesake proud with an “intriguing and beautifully played program” that exuded “convincing elegance, near effortless lightness, and grace.” Their concerts have been featured on American Public Media’s Performance Today program, and their recordings are regularly broadcast around the world.
But the Poulenc Trio’s impact extends beyond their performances. They have made a significant contribution to the repertoire for the oboe, bassoon, and piano by commissioning and performing over 22 new works, including three triple concertos for the trio and full orchestra, showcasing their commitment to pushing the boundaries of their ensemble’s capabilities and expanding the possibilities of chamber music.
The trio has embarked on innovative concert initiatives, including Music at the Museum, a groundbreaking concept that combines musical performances with museum exhibitions. Collaborating with esteemed institutions such as the Walters Art Museum, the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Hermitage State Museum in Russia, and the National Gallery in Washington DC, where they premiered “Trains of Thought” Animated, a hand animated film commissioned by the trio to pair with an original score by composer Viet Cuong.
The trio is equally dedicated to musical and educational outreach programs. Their “Poulenc and Snacks” series offers informal performances and residencies specifically tailored for younger audiences, cultivating a love for music among the next generation. Furthermore, they regularly conduct masterclasses at universities across the United States, sharing their expertise and nurturing the talents of aspiring musicians.
Beyond captivating live performances, the Poulenc Trio’s discography showcases their musical prowess and commitment to both classical and contemporary music. Their début album, “Poulenc Plays Poulenc” (2009), pays homage to the composer who inspired their ensemble’s name. Their second album, “Creation” (2016), debuted at an impressive #4 on Apple Music’s iTunes Classical Music playlist and was acclaimed by the American Record Guide for their technical mastery and expressive range. Their most recent album, “Trains of Thought,” received accolades from MusicWeb International for their highly accomplished playing, which “effortlessly captures occasional touches of sentimentality, infused with humor and wit.”
