Cellist Nikolaj Sajko and pianist Miha Haas have been artisticly collaborating since their student years, when they were both studying at the Academy of Music in Ljubljana. Together they played in various chamber ensembles (e.g. Piano Quintet Forelius). After finishing their master degrees they began to work as a piano duo. They performed numerous recitals with different repertoires. As a duo they took master classes with the famous Trio di Parma. In 2010 they recorded a CD with works of Edvard Grieg, Risto Savin, Bohuslav Martinů and Blaž Pucihar.
Their interpretational goal is a performance that is faithful to the requirements of the composer and historical framework, but will on the other hand try to bring in as much as possible the specific features of cello and piano, as well as various personal natures of both musicians. Particular emphasis is given to colour and quality of tone, as well as internal tensions of the composition, especially the flow of dialogue between the two instruments. These artists have thus developed a particular concept of playing that satisfies the listeners with freshness and energy.
"…a strong level of conversation and musical communication that will immediately speak to a listener, drawing them in and making them a part of the performance, rather than a passive bystander."
"… perform with an emotional quality that draws the listener into the piece, holding one’s attention through the slow moments, the intense climax and the dramatic finale."
"…level of communication and interaction is one of the main reasons that this record leaves such a lasting impression on the listener."
Citations: Dr. Matthew Warnock - from the review of "Grieg, Savin, Martinů, Pucihar"