BIOGRAPHY

Anagnoson & Kinton are heralded as one of the world's premier piano duos, captivating audiences globally with their exceptional artistry. With over 1,000 performances spanning more than four decades, they have garnered critical acclaim in North America, Europe, China, and Russia. As the New York Times stated, "an outstanding two-piano recital with formidable precision and panache." Their dynamic performances, blending traditional recitals with innovative commissioned works, have redefined the piano duo repertoire, showcasing their unparalleled musicianship and seamless ensemble playing.

The duo's journey began at the Aspen Music Festival, where they first met as students. In 1976, they decided to collaborate on a two-piano recital, and from their first rehearsal of Brahms' Sonata in F Minor, an extraordinary musical chemistry was evident. Encouraged by renowned pianists Gina Bachauer and Eugene List, who recognized their unique synergy, Anagnoson & Kinton embarked on a remarkable career as a piano duo which has been defined as "communicative and sonorously energetic." (The London Times)

Throughout their illustrious career, Anagnoson & Kinton have been trailblazers, commissioning and premiering numerous compositions that push the boundaries of piano-duo performance. Notable collaborations include performing Stravinsky's "Rite of Spring" with innovative choreography by John Alleyne alongside Ballet BC and premiering "Into the Labyrinth," a multi-genre work by Ray Luedeke with staging by Tom Diamond and narration by actor Colin Fox. Their versatility as chamber musicians is evident in their performances of Bartók’s Sonata for Two Pianos and Percussion and collaborations with prestigious ensembles such as the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, Elora Festival Singers, Elmer Iseler Singers, and the Vancouver Cantata Singers. They are also esteemed guest artists at the Festival of the Sound and the Elora Festival.

Anagnoson & Kinton's discography includes ten acclaimed recordings, with highlights such as "Stages," celebrating their 30th season, and their latest release, "Piano Titans," on the Opening Day label, featuring works by Clementi, Beethoven, and Schubert.

James Anagnoson is Dean of The Glenn Gould School and a graduate of the Eastman School of Music and The Juilliard School. Leslie Kinton is Professor of Piano at Western University with a Master of Music and Ph.D. in music theory from the University of Toronto. Together, they bring extensive academic and professional expertise to their performances. In 2019, they were honored as Honorary Fellows of the Royal Conservatory of Music, recognizing their significant contributions to the Canadian classical music landscape.

Their legacy is defined by their commitment to excellence, innovation, and the enduring power of musical collaboration, continuing to inspire and enchant audiences worldwide.

Anagnoson & Kinton are Yamaha Artists.

June 2024