The debut album “Haydn All-Stars” by the young Swiss-French Trio Ernest is a striking proof of their musical prowess and commitment to bringing fresh perspectives to classical music. Charlotte Gardner’s insightful review captures the essence of the album, revealing an ensemble that is not only firmly rooted in tradition but also unafraid to explore contemporary voices. 

The album opens with Haydn’s Piano Trio in E minor, HobXV:12, showcasing the trio’s crisp, brightly sharp-edged, and powerful performance. The confident and distinctive ensemble nature of Trio Ernest is immediately apparent, setting the tone for a musical journey that combines the classical genius of Haydn with the innovative spirit of later composers. 

Gardner highlights the trio’s commitment to programming works by women in each concert, reflected in the inclusion of a 2007 piece by Belgian composer Jacqueline Fontyn. The review praises the trio’s thematic and enterprising approach to the program, creating a cohesive and engaging listening experience. 

Trio Ernest’s accolades, including the First Prize at the Orpheus Chamber Music Competition and the Chamber Music Award of Vienna’s ISA Festival, underscore their remarkable talent and dedication. Gardner notes their residency at the Chapelle Musicale Reine Elisabeth in Brussels and upcoming tour in China, emphasizing the trio’s growing influence on the global stage. 

The heart of the album lies in its tribute to Haydn, featuring four of his piano trios complemented by works from later composers inspired by him. The period-aware Haydn readings exhibit a fantastic freshness, energy, and range of color. Gardner praises the trio’s interpretation of the E minor Trio, particularly highlighting the central Andante for its charm, spirit, and the piano’s bell-like tone. The concluding Presto is described as a poised and vivacious balancing act, showcasing the trio’s musical finesse. 

The trio’s exploration of later composers’ works is equally commendable, with lucid-textured interpretations of Ravel’s Menuet sur le nom de Haydn and Brahms’s lied ‘Immer leiser.’ Gardner notes the trio’s ability to capture the whimsy in Ravel’s composition and the Romanticism-breathed sepia quality in Brahms’s work. 

 Gardner commends Trio Ernest on a strong debut and expresses anticipation for more releases from them on the Aparté label. “Haydn All-Stars” not only pays homage to a classical master but also establishes Trio Ernest as a captivating ensemble with a promising future.