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About

Brought together by friendship, a shared passion for artistic integrity, and determination to fuse tradition with modern values, Merida Trio combines the bold and dynamic voices of three of Chicago's finest chamber musicians. Combining 42 years of collective chamber music experience with groups including Fifth House Ensemble, Duo FAE, and Kontras Quartet, pianist Katherine Petersen, violinist Charlene Kluegel and cellist Jean Hatmaker have joined forces to explore the potential of their collaborative energy. 

With a particular interest in championing music by female and underrepresented composers, they infuse every performance with their celebrated craftsmanship and dramatic flair. Coming off of the success of their debut recital in the fall of 2024, Merida Trio is on track to be a cherished gem in the Chicago chamber music scene with several highly anticipated appearances scheduled for the coming season. Upcoming appearances include Rush Hour Concerts on August 5, 2025, and the Beethoven Triple Concerto with the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra in the spring of 2026. Discover more at www.meridatrio.com.