Cygnus Trio . Javier Montaana, violin. Hannah Lewis, cello. Cesar Saura, piano

Having had to cancel their concert at last year's Festival it is fantastic that the Cygnus Trio are able to perform at this year's Festival.Beethoven: Piano Trio in B-flat major, Op.97 (Archduke)
Shostakovich: Piano Trio No. 2 in E Minor, Op. 67Praised for interpretations that are as passionate as they are subtle (Melmano) and for their beautifully responsive chamber playing (Berkhamsted Music), the Cygnus Trio was formed in 2012 by three students at the Royal Academy of Music. Having played together as a duo in Spain, violinist Javier Montaana and pianist Csar Saura met cellist Hannah Lewis, with whom they discovered a like-minded approach and a shared love of chamber music. Over the last fourteen years, the trio has studied with internationally renowned performers, won prizes in various competitions, and performed widely across Europe and the UK.
The ensembles development has been shaped by coaching from many renowned performers, notably including a series of masterclasses with Alfred Brendel in Pistoia, Italy. From 2017 to 2020, they also participated in specialised chamber music courses at theAccademia Walter Staufferin Cremona, working closely with members of theQuartetto di Cremona. Since 2018, they have been members of the networkLe Dimore del Quartettoand have performed extensively throughout Italy. The trio has received prizes in international competitions including theAntn Garcia Abriland theEcoparque de Trasmieracompetitions, and has appeared at festivals such as the Santander International Festival, the Panticosa International Festival, theAuditorium Lo Squeroin Venice, and theTeatro Ponchielliin Cremona.
In 2024, their debut albumImpressions of Iberiawas released on the label Da Vinci Classics. Featuring works by Arbs, Turina, and Ravel, the recording was described byMelmanoas one of those recordings that can be enjoyed again and again, with its freshness remaining intact. The album explores the relationship between Spanish folk music and French impressionism, an interest in cultural cross-pollination that often extends to their live programming, where they use art and poetry to shape their concert projects.