Trio Jean Paul

The ensemble is named after the German Romantic writer Jean Paul, whose real name was Johann Paul Friedrich Richter. The trio chose this name to reflect their deep roots in the German Romantic musical tradition. Jean Paul was a massive influence on 19th-century composers like Robert Schumann.

The trio consists of pianist Eckart Heiligers, violinist Ulf Schneider, and cellist Martin Löhr. They founded the ensemble together in 1991 while studying in Europe. They have performed and recorded with this stable lineup for decades.

The German piano trio is based in Europe and has strong ties to the German musical establishment. They have served as artists-in-residence at institutions within Germany and frequently tour across the continent. Their performances are heavily concentrated in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

They perform the standard classical and Romantic piano-trio repertoire, including the works of Beethoven, Schubert, and Brahms. Additionally, they are recognized for recording lesser-known works, such as the complete piano trios of Robert Volkmann. Their discography on the CAvi-music label has helped revive neglected 19th-century chamber music.