On Friday, November 1st, Northern Michigan University will welcome the globally acclaimed Zodiac Trio to perform as part of the Siril Concert Series in Reynolds Recital Hall. Comprised of clarinetist Kliment Krylovskiy, violinist Vanessa Mollard, and pianist Riko Higuma, the Zodiac Trio is known for its unique instrumentation, blending clarinet, violin, and piano—a combination they acknowledge is rare in the world of classical music but has allowed them to craft a distinct sound and style.
In a recent interview, the trio shared how their international backgrounds contribute to their ensemble’s character. Kliment, originally from Moscow, moved to New York before settling in France, Vanessa, hails from France’s southern coast, while Riko, the pianist and principal arranger of the group, grew up in Japan and later moved to New York. This diversity of cultural and musical backgrounds has brought an exciting and versatile flair to their interpretations, allowing them to explore classical repertoire with a fresh perspective and embrace arrangements that bridge classical traditions and contemporary flair.
The group was founded when Kliment and Vanessa crossed paths at Indiana University, eventually relocating to New York, where they decided to form an ensemble with a unique voice in chamber music. “We wanted something a little bit different,” Kliment explained. While conventional chamber groups might stick to traditional piano trios or quartets, Zodiac Trio chose the clarinet-violin-piano arrangement, partly inspired by their collective interest in presenting less conventional instrumentation. After connecting with Riko, they solidified their trio and began performing together.
One of the challenges the Zodiac Trio faces is the limited classical repertoire written specifically for their instruments, a gap they've eagerly filled by arranging well-known works for their trio. “It’s a challenge, but it’s also a creative freedom,” Riko noted, explaining how she enjoys adapting both classical and popular works for their performances. The ensemble has arranged a diverse selection of music, including pieces like "Peter and the Wolf" and Piazzolla tangos, offering audiences an engaging, “pocket-sized” symphonic experience. This approach also broadens accessibility, making grand symphonic works more intimate and immediate for smaller audiences.
Watch an excerpt of a multimedia experience with "Peter and the Wolf" featuring the Zodiac Trio:
In concert, Zodiac Trio is lauded for their energy, virtuosity, and a soloist-driven approach to performance. Each member brings an individual style and presence to the ensemble, and as they explain, it’s a process of balancing three powerful voices rather than a traditional hierarchical setup. This dynamic is a result of years of intense collaboration, including a formative period in Paris where the trio lived together, practicing hours each day. “It was like building a foundation,” Kliment recalled, underscoring how these early experiences laid the groundwork for their dynamic and cohesive sound.
Kurt Hauswirth spoke with Kliment, Vanessa, and Riko in Studio A:
Beyond their performances, Zodiac Trio is dedicated to fostering music appreciation and educating the next generation of musicians. Their Music Appreciation presentation on Friday will introduce students to the fundamental “why” behind making music—whether to set a mood, tell a story, or offer pure expression. They’ll discuss the crossover of genres and explore how classical instruments can push boundaries, merging jazz, tango, and traditional classical compositions.
With a reputation for musical adaptability and educational outreach, the Zodiac Trio’s visit to NMU promises to enrich the campus community. The Siril Concert on November 1st at Reynolds Recital Hall offers a rare chance to experience this dynamic trio, which continues to redefine chamber music.
The trio performs on NMU's campus on Friday, November 1st at 7:30 pm in the Reynolds Recital Hall. Tickets are available at tickets.nmu.edu. Two additional free events will take place on November 1st: a Music Appreciation Presentation at 11 am and a Masterclass at 1 pm.
Find out more at ZodiacTrio.com or the Siril Concert Series site.
