The opportunity to share their love of chamber music and champion the works of women composers led violinist Jane Linde Capistran, cellist Elise Buffat Nelson and pianist Amy Mercer to form “The Lyra Trio” in 2013. All are members of the Fargo Moorhead Symphony and have been affiliated with the Tri-College schools in Fargo and Moorhead – Concordia College, Minnesota State University at Moorhead, and North Dakota State University. In addition, they each have a private studio of students.
For chamber musicians, the journey of discovering, exploring, and rehearsing a work together develops a special bond and wonderful friendship. The opportunity to share the music with an audience is an added element of joy. Featuring works of past and present women composers has been pivotal in the Lyra Trio’s development as a chamber ensemble. The trio has premiered works by regional composers Natalie Fideler, Kristi Fullerton, and Kathryn Rolf. Performances have also included the repertoire of Jennifer Higdon, Fanny Mendelssohn, Clara Schumann, Gabriel Faure, Peter Schickele, and Astor Piazzolla.
On May 17, 2025, The Lyra Trio will perform Kevin Kaska’s “Triple Concerto” with the Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra!
