Formed in 2019 by three Czech musicians—Matouš Pěruška (violin), Kristina Vocetková (cello), and Jan Vojtek (piano)—Trio Bohémo released their debut disc in August 2024 under the Supraphon label. The disc features Schubert’s Piano Trio in E-flat Major D929 and Smetana’s Piano Trio in G Minor Op 15, garnering positive reviews ahead of their UK tour in October and November 2024.
In a recent interview, the trio discussed their new release, approach to performance, and love for England. The conversation, which took place via Zoom, revealed their passion for both the music and their unique journey as an ensemble.
The choice of repertoire for their debut recording, featuring works by Schubert and Smetana, is not an obvious pairing. The pieces, written almost 30 years apart, exist in different musical worlds. However, Smetana’s trio was a natural selection for the group, as they felt a deep connection to the piece, particularly in 2024, marking the 200th anniversary of the composer’s birth. The inclusion of Schubert’s trio took more deliberation, with input from the record label. Still, both are regarded as great works for piano trio, and the musicians were drawn to the thematic link of grief and death between the two compositions. Smetana wrote his trio following the death of his daughter, while Schubert’s trio was completed in the last year of his life, though the composer may not have been aware of his impending death. Both works, despite their somber themes, carry a sense of hope and emotional resolution, which resonates with the trio.
The recording took place at Snape Maltings in England, a somewhat unexpected choice for a Czech ensemble. However, it was a practical decision. Finding suitable recording spaces in the Czech Republic proved challenging, and the trio had already developed a deep connection with England, where they received numerous opportunities early in their career. They had previously participated in the Britten Pears Young Artist Programme in 2022-23 and fell in love with Snape Maltings as a location. Additionally, their producer at Supraphon suggested working with renowned recording producer Andrew Keener, making it logical to record in the UK.
The trio waited until they felt ready to make their debut recording. Rather than rushing to produce a disc, they wanted to ensure that they had something meaningful to express about the pieces they recorded. By 2023, they had reached a point where they felt their interpretation of Smetana’s Piano Trio was mature enough to capture.
The musicians’ collaboration began at conservatoire, where Matouš and Kristina first played together in a string quartet before forming a violin-cello duo. After performing with Jan at European festivals, they decided to establish Trio Bohémo in 2019. Ironically, the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic played a crucial role in their development as an ensemble. Forced to move in together, the trio learned to navigate the challenges of sharing a living space, which ultimately strengthened their bond. As they emerged from lockdown and resumed attending events and masterclasses, the closeness they developed allowed them to collaborate seamlessly, even in shared accommodations.
Trio Bohémo is the focal point of each member’s musical career, with all three dedicating their time and energy exclusively to the group. They rehearse daily and perform most of their concerts together, fully committing to the ensemble’s success.
The trio credits much of their musical growth to the mentorship of Hatto Beyerle, a founding member of the Alban Berg Quartett, who provided them with their first lessons and shaped their approach to music. Another key influence is Johannes Meissl in Vienna, who encouraged Matouš and Kristina to form the trio. His advice remains invaluable, and the musicians consider themselves fortunate to have him as a friend.
For Trio Bohémo, the piano trio repertoire offers a wealth of opportunities. During their upcoming American tour in November, they will perform an impressive range of 22 trios. They plan to explore more Romantic works by Dvořák, Brahms, and Mendelssohn while also drawing on their Viennese training to delve into Classical period compositions.
Looking ahead, the trio is already planning their next project with Supraphon, promising something distinctly Czech and unique, featuring lesser-known repertoire. In May 2025, they will make their orchestral debut in Brno, performing trio concertos by Vojtěch Jírovec (Vortisek) and Bohuslav Martinů. The trio is also excited about their debut performance at Prague’s prestigious Rudolfinum concert hall.
Trio Bohémo’s journey has been one of patience, collaboration, and a deep commitment to their music. With their debut disc now released and more exciting projects on the horizon, the trio’s future looks bright, as they continue to make their mark on the international music scene.
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