A chamber music series with six albums and counting, Carnegie Hall recitals, and critical acclaim from Gramophone Magazine? Meet MOTO.

Established in 2013, MOTO is Navona Records’ longest-standing album series, featuring works for piano trio and subsets. Each album is recorded by the dynamic Trio Casals, who are composed of cellist and conductor Ovidiu Marinescu, violinist Alexandr Kislitsyn (joined 2020), and pianist Anna Kislitsyna. Previous members include violinist Sylvia Ahramjian (member from 1996-2020).

MOTO projects each begin with the PARMA Recordings Call for Scores in which composers submit scores and the ensemble takes part in selecting the pieces for the collection. The scores are then recorded by the trio and released under the Navona Records label. Each MOTO project culminates in style, with a concert performance at the elegant Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall.

MOTO PERPETUO started this series in 2013, meeting with critical acclaim (“winsome and impassioned” – Gramophone Magazine). From beauty in motion to dances in dissonance, each MOTO album takes a unique look at movement in various states. Trio Casals has now performed nearly half a dozen concerts for MOTO, and the next album is in production.

From the recording studio to Carnegie Hall, MOTO only continues to gain momentum.

Press and Testimonials

“[MOTO PERPETUO] includes moments of rumination and brooding personality, qualities that suit the dark, sagacious timbre of the cello, amid episodes of rustic charm and extrovert vitality. It’s a highly eclectic mix of repertoire…. Marinescu teams with colleagues in chamber-music conversations of winsome and impassioned appeal.”

—Gramophone Magazine

“Each of the ten composers brings an individual voice to the medium, making for a varied and satisfying program. The playing is convincing and committed throughout.”

— The Whole Note on MOTO BELLO

“Accomplished song craft that’s handled exquisitely with Trio Casals.”

— Take Effect on MOTO CELESTE

“The recording process for Ondine was top notch…. With regards to the Trio, I can’t say enough good things about their attitude, professionalism and devotion to the music. These types of artist are the reason why I enjoy what I do so much. Congrats on assembling a star team!”

— Composer Giovanni Piacentini on MOTO BELLO

“The Carnegie Concert on Saturday was fabulous! The Trio Casals came through with impressive commitment to each piece, including my “Piano Trio No. 2”. They really captured the energy, focus and nuances of my piece.”

— Composer Joanne Carey on MOTO QUARTO

Trio Casals are one of the recording ensembles in PARMA’s Fall 2020 Call for Scores, which is currently accepting scores for consideration! To submit a score to be recorded and performed by Trio Casals or one of our other participating ensembles, visit our website.

Submit A Score