“The Trio’s artistry, originality, and inventive arrangements captivated our audience from the first note to the last. Their performance was engaging, polished, and filled with charm, culminating in an encore rendition of Rossini’s Cat Duet that brought the entire room to its feet…If you are looking for a fun, memorable, and impeccably executed performance, I cannot recommend Trio de Chats Noirs highly enough. They bring both excellence and joy to the stage in equal measure.”

Emily Cox, Music Department Manager, Fourth Presbyterian Church - Chicago

Transcendent:
Music for Horn, Bass Trombone and Organ

Trio de Chats Noirs—Rachel Velvikis (horn), Mark Fry (bass trombone), and organist Christopher Powell—has completed recording Transcendent, featuring the music of Spiegler, Bruckner, Saint-Saëns, Mozart, Corelli, Liszt, Bach, Hovhaness, and Handel. Recorded in the beautiful sanctuary of Saint Giles Episcopal Church in Northbrook, IL on the magnificent Hellmuth Wolff organ (Opus 37, 1994), with expert engineering by Keenan Recording. Transcendent will be released soon to all major streaming platforms, with the physical CD following later this year.

Produced and presented by 3CB Music Productions, LLC.

Photo credit: Sean Keenan

Trio de Chats Noirs is a dynamic chamber ensemble featuring Rachel Velvikis on horn and Mark Fry on bass trombone and euphonium. Their performances showcase a broad, ever-evolving repertoire that spans centuries and styles—from the timeless masterpieces of J.S. Bach and Johannes Brahms to the evocative works of Alec Wilder, Ennio Morricone, and beyond.

Renowned for their artistic versatility and innovative programming, the trio excels in imaginative transcriptions that breathe fresh energy into both classical and contemporary music. They frequently collaborate with world-class pianists and organists, including the acclaimed Liang-yu Wang and organist Christopher Powell, whose contributions add profound emotional depth, rich sonic textures, and striking variety to their sound.

The ensemble is currently preparing the release of their debut album, Transcendent: Music for Horn, Bass Trombone and Organ. In support of the album, Trio de Chats Noirs will be touring extensively across the United States during the 2026–2027 concert season, with performances throughout the Midwest, Texas, the Pacific Northwest, and the East Coast.

Their live appearances range from intimate noonday recitals and historic church venues to radio broadcasts and educational outreach at institutions such as Northern Illinois University. Signature programs include Songs and Dances and Transcendent (with organ). Each concert delivers an immersive, unforgettable musical journey filled with lyricism, virtuosity, and joy.

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