Beethoven's final piano trio, named for his benefactor the Archduke Rudolph, is considered to be not only one of the capstones to Beethoven's 'heroic' middle period, but also one of the greatest compositions in the trio repertoire. Composed in a flurry of inspiration in March 1811, Beethoven was fond of performing this trio, and chose to play it in his final public concert. Musica Tra Amici co-directors Eric Halen and Brinton Averil Smith join with internationally renowned concert pianist and Steinway Artist Evelyn Chen to bring Beethoven's masterpiece to life.

Opening the program will be Rachmaninoff's brief but emotionally transfixing Trio élégiaque No. 1, with which the 19 year old Rachmaninoff made his debut as a composer. The beautiful and melodic work owes shows the influence of his mentor Tchaikovsky, but has the unmistakeable stamp of Rachmaninoff's own genius.

Following the concert the audience and performers will meet and discuss the music with complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres.