Classical show to play in Jasper Saturday night

Trio Amabile is proof that an unlikely dynamic can result in something great.

The classical trio, made up of the violin, piano and french horn, is unique, said trio musician Aaron Au, because few composers write for that combination.

Music lovers will have the chance to experience the combination at the United Church in Jasper Saturday night, as Arts Jasper brings the group to town.

The three professional musicians, who have toured together for the past three years on and off, came together when they met as board members for the Edmonton Recital Society. 

“If you can imagine just having a great time with great friends and making music, that’s what it’s like,” Au said.

Allene Hackleman, who plays the horn, plays in the Edmonton Symphony with Au, who plays violin, and Sarah Ho is a piano teacher at the Alberta College Conservatory of Music.

Though classical music may not seem to suit rural Alberta, Au disagrees. “I think great music is great music in any genre,” he said. “I’m a big fan of folk and bluegrass and people from those traditions really are open and enjoy classical. There are enough parallels and similarities that it will challenge and excite the audience.”

The audiences at Trio Amabile’s concerts tend to contain a variety of people. “There are a lot of young people, a lot of people who are curious, and we love having them there,” he said. “It’s a huge wide demographic of people who come and we want them to enjoy themselves.”

As well, a small church provides the ideal venue, according to Au. “That’s what we love doing,” he said. “Chamber music is all about intimacy, is intentioned to be cozy, and we always hear comments from people saying it’s so nice to be so close, to see how we interact on stage and with each other as well.”

The show starts at 7:30 p.m. at the United Church in Jasper. Tickets are $15 at the door.