In this first episode of the New Year, host Jim Cunningham sat down with the Shell Trio - Lili Zakaryan (violin), Shushana Hakobyan (piano), and Katya Jampoladyan (cello) - as they joined us live in the studio to talk about their upcoming concert with the Kassia Ensemble, Notes from Armenia at the Frick Fine Arts Building. This concert is sponsored by the Armenian Nationality Room of University of Pittsburgh and the Opportunity Fund, and will include works by the legendary Armenian composers Arno Babajanian, Aram Khachaturian, and many more. The trio performs live in the WQED studios Babajanyan's Trio in F# minor.

The trio discusses the inspiring story behind their musical journey and the origins of the trio, dating back to 1997 in Yerevan, Armenia. They reflect on their recent return to performing together after years of international performances.

They also share the highlights of the concert, including a medley of music by the iconic French-Armenia singer Charles Aznavour. The concert promises to be a moving and vibrant experience!

You can see the Shell Trio and the Kassia Ensemble on January 11th at 3 pm at the Frick Fine Arts Building at the University of Pittsburgh. The concert is free!

Visit https://www.nationalityrooms.pitt.edu/events/notes-armenia-concert-strings-keys-and-wind to learn more.