It seems as though the Phoenix Piano Trio was made for each other.
Department of Music professors Meaghan Skogen and Dan Skidmore were new faculty members when colleague Victoria Fischer Faw introduced the idea of making a piano trio. This type of trio would consist of a piano, which Fischer plays, a violinist and cellist. Skidmore and Skogen played the respective instruments and jumped on the idea.
Although the Phoenix Piano Trio aims to give one 90-minute performance each semester, the group canceled its spring recital because of a medical emergency within the group. But they still spend much of their free time rehearsing and discovering new music, which Skogen said is a testament to the group’s musical and personal chemistry.
“This is a group where we really have both, which truly is rare,” Skogen said. “Sometimes it’s just a look from each other and we know exactly what we’re going to do and that’s what makes it fun when you play.”
The trio strives to give each member an equal voice. They bounce ideas off each other until they find something that seems to work for the particular piece they’re practicing. The trio agrees this is vital, and as a result, they recognize the importance of each group member.
“We all really like to dig in below the surface and explore,” Fischer said. “The chamber music is so special because it’s more intimate. It’s like a team of specialists.”
Skidmore agreed the group’s musical interests allow for a varied repertoire.
“We read a bunch of things,” Skidmore said. “We all have stacks of music. Like reading a book, somebody would bring (in a) piece and we would read through it together and (see) if it’s possible, or if we really like it or if it’s for a long-term project.”
The Phoenix Piano Trio said it hopes to inspire Elon students through its music. According to group members, college imposes stress on many and they hope to relieve some of this stress by allowing students to enjoy a night of relaxation away from studying. If they reach this goal, the recital is a success.
But the trio’s hopes to connect with students go beyond the stage. Not only are the members of the trio active performing artists, they are also active educators.
“The Phoenix Piano Trio is a great example of professors pursuing their career outside of the classroom by practicing what they preach as professional musicians,” said junior Wesley Rose.
Group members said they hope to see more student musicians following in their footsteps.
[quote]We all really like to dig in below the surface and explore. The chamber music is so special because it’s more intimate. --Victoria Fischer Faw, professor music[/quote]
“The old joke is, ‘How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice,’” Fischer said.
In graduate school, Fischer practiced eight hours a day. She now works directly with Rose during private piano lessons, and Rose said there has never been a dull moment.
"Her personal commitment to my growth as a professional musician never ceases to impress," Rose said.
Group members agreed the trio has gotten to where it is today because each member loves what they do, and they enjoy the many rehearsals leading up to a performance.
Skogen said she encourages students to follow their instincts and pursue the things they are passionate about.
“Find what it is you love, don’t give up and go after it full-heartedly because you deserve that,” Skogen said. “Everybody deserves to be the best they want to be and it’s worth the work, it’s worth the practice, it’s worth the effort.”