By Brian Ivasauskas
Fresh off of a Grammy nomination for Best Chamber Music/Small Ensemble Performance, a national tour, and two new albums recorded in the UK, the Neave Trio is settling into its next big endeavor: serving as VCUarts’ first-ever ensemble-in-residence.
When the trio—violinist Anna Williams, cellist Mikhail Veselov and pianist Eri Nakamura—performed as part of the Department of Music’s Rennolds Series in March 2023, they were captivated by the campus’ energy.
“The enthusiasm was so real,” Williams said. “We knew we wanted to be part of it.”
That’s why they were so excited when James Wiznerowicz, Department Chair of VCU Music, extended an invitation to join VCUarts.
“Having them here for residency is unbelievable,” said Wiznerowicz. “They are incredible musicians who perform a wide range of music—iconic repertoire of the piano trio literature, recently uncovered music of women composers and even world premieres composed just for them. This is something extraordinary.”
“We’re just delighted to be a part of this community,” Veselov said. “From the students to the faculty, this commitment to growth, integrity and expression – it feels so pervasive.”
The value placed on the arts here is really extraordinary, and you don’t find that everywhere. Across fields, across mediums – that’s really important to us as an ensemble.
Anna Williams
An ensemble-in-residence takes on a variety of roles – everything from instructor and coach to recording artist and performer. The Neave Trio, who has worked with industry trailblazers, composers and conductors over the years, plans to do it all at VCU.
“We want to become a part of this community’s fabric in every way,” Veselov said. “Helping with the goals of the department, working with students across instruments and engaging with the Richmond community whenever possible.”
Nakamura added, “We want to reflect the students’ enthusiasm and energy. Just as they evolve in their music, we want to inspire them and evolve alongside them.”
“The value placed on the arts here is really extraordinary, and you don’t find that everywhere,” Williams noted. “Across fields, across mediums – that’s really important to us as an ensemble.”
The trio has only been in Richmond a short time, but they noted how the VCU community already feels like home.
“Everyone is so welcoming and collaborative. It just feels like they want you to succeed,” Nakamura said.
As they continue to settle in, Veselov underscores the trio’s role as ensemble-in-residence.
“We recognize the investment on the part of the university, and we don’t take that lightly. We look forward to being as much of a resource as possible.”