Pacho Flores earned the First Prize of the “Maurice André” International Competition–the most distinguished trumpet competition in the world–as well as the First Prize of the “Philip Jones” International Competition and the First Prize of the “Cittá di Porcia” International Competition. Raised in the marvelous Sistema youth orchestras of Venezuela, Pacho also receives strong praise for his performances as a soloist, recitalist, and recording artist. He thrives in classical and popular music styles. Flores brings to his breathtaking interpretations an energy nuanced by the most refined instrumental colors.
Venezuelan-born pianist Elena Abend, has performed recitals and chamber concerts as well as toured and recorded with major orchestras of her country. As a recipient of the William Schuman Prize for outstanding achievement and leadership in music, Ms. Abend received her Bachelor and Master degrees from the Juilliard School. Performances have taken her to venues such as Royal Festival Hall’s Purcell Room and London’s Wigmore Hall, Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center, and Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, among many others.