Black Moon Trio is a horn, violin, and piano ensemble redefining the chamber music experience through adventurous programming, community-centered education, and a commitment to equity in the arts. Founded in 2022 by Parker Nelson, Jeremy Vigil, and Khelsey Zarraga, the trio seeks to effect meaningful change by connecting with diverse audiences and amplifying underrepresented voices.

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At the heart of Black Moon Trio’s mission is the belief that classical music is for everyone. Through innovative performances, original commissions, and collaborations across artistic disciplines, they spotlight the work of composers of color, women composers, and others historically excluded from the classical canon. Their adventurous programming blends newly commissioned works with reimagined classics, interdisciplinary collaborations, and thought-provoking themes—crafting concerts that challenge traditional expectations while fostering a sense of inclusivity and discovery. Recent commissions include works by award-winning composers Jeff Scott, Stacy Garrop, and Gala Flagello. In addition to their own productions, Black Moon Trio has curated concert experiences for Connecticut Summerfest and the Ravinia Festival, expanding access to chamber music through immersive, community-informed programming.

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In addition to live performance, Black Moon Trio is dedicated to documenting and sharing new music through recording projects that extend the reach of their mission. Their debut album, Principal, features five world premiere recordings of newly commissioned works and original arrangements, showcasing the trio’s versatility and commitment to expanding the repertoire for horn, violin, and piano. Flourish, their second major project, is an immersive musical experience exploring the deep connections between humans and the natural world. Featuring three world premiere recordings and spoken-word narration by scientist, professor, New York Times best-selling author, and enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Robin Wall Kimmerer. Flourish blends music and narrative to invite listeners into a richly interwoven ecological story.

Black Moon Trio is also dedicated to uncovering and cataloging largely unknown and underperformed repertoire for the unique combination of horn, violin, and piano. By researching historical works and discovering hidden gems from diverse composers, the trio broadens the scope of music available to performers and audiences alike. This important work not only enriches their concert programs but also contributes to preserving and revitalizing a distinctive chamber music tradition that is often overlooked.

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Beyond the stage, Black Moon Trio inspires curiosity and creativity through engaging educational programs reaching thousands of participants each year. Their members bring extensive experience not only in chamber music performance, but also music education in social service settings, university-level workshops, multi-day residencies, and arts-integrated curriculum development. These collective strengths allow the trio to offer performances and learning experiences that bring curriculum to life through vivid, interactive musical experiences that invite participants to create, reflect, and lead. 

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Black Moon Trio is proud to hold a residency at the Brushwood Center in Riverwoods, Illinois, where they cultivate ongoing artistic development and community engagement programs. This residency provides a vital space for creative collaboration, rehearsals, and educational programming, allowing the trio to deepen their connection to the local community while advancing their mission of making classical music accessible and relevant to all.

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Whether in concert halls, classrooms, or community spaces, Black Moon Trio invites listeners of all ages and backgrounds to experience classical music that echoes far beyond the final chord.