Friday Lunchtime Concert: Trio Archai I

The Piano Trio was the medium by which Beethoven announced himself to the world with his Op.1 set. It is followed by Helen Grime’s Miniatures, inspired by three chalk and pastel works by Whistler, which explore intimate atmospheres and subtle gradations of palate. The programme is completed by Fauré’s Piano Trio in D minor, written at the very end of the composer’s life.

Founded in Basel in 2023, Trio Archai has quickly gained international recognition through winning First Prize and Beethoven Prize at the Schoenfeld International String Competition 2025 in China, and First Prize at the 72nd Royal Over-Seas League Competition 2024 in London. Their performances have taken them to prestigious venues and festivals including Wigmore Hall, St George’s Bristol, Schaffhausen Klassik, Swiss Chamber Music Festival, and Whittington Festival.

The name Archai (pronounced “Ark-ai”), from the Ancient Greek for “origins” or “first principles”, reflects the ensemble’s shared musical values and their commitment to grow together.

Kindly supported by The Albert and Eugenie Frost Music Trust.

Trio Archai:
Ayla Sahin violin
Finn Mannion cello
Mar Valor piano