Matthias Goerne and Evgeny Kissin

Moscow-born pianist Evgeny Kissin, famed for his Russian virtuoso style, began as a child prodigy and rose to global stardom. Known for works by Chopin and Tchaikovsky, he's collaborated with top orchestras and conductors like Ashkenazy and Rattle. Kissin is a multi-award winner, including three Grammys, and the youngest Musician of the Year by Musical America. He records with major labels and has over 100 releases, spanning Romantic to Russian pieces. Also a poet and composer, his works include a String Quartet. Kissin advocates for Israel and protested Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Born in Weimar, Matthias Goerne excels in German lieder and opera, noted for roles in "Wozzeck" and "La bohème." Collaborations include Kurt Masur and Leif Ove Andsnes. His recordings feature on Harmonia Mundi and Decca, with a Grammy-nominated Schumann album.