The literal translation of the phrase ‘tour de trois’ means ‘round of three’. Violinist Kristian Winther’s phrase is witty and well chosen, suggesting not only the trio of musicians – Winther, cellist Anna Pokorny and pianist Konstantin Shamray – but the often dense contrapuntal qualities found in this recital’s program. The further idea of the round as in a boxing match was also appropriate, suggesting the sparring qualities found in his choice of repertoire – “five wildly different yet visionary composers” as Winther put it.

Kristian Winther. Photo © Anthony Browell

The first half of the concert was devoted to compositions previously unplayed by these first-class musicians. Many have dismissed Max Reger as a dry, structurally obsessed contrapuntalist and yet as Winther pointed out in his introductory comments, Hindemith regarded him as the last link, ‘a giant’ in the great Teutonic line which ran from Bach, through Beethoven, and onto Brahms. Reger was as gargantuan in his personal life as in his dense compositional style and output, writing a great deal, performing often, and teaching many students before his early death. His Chaconne for Solo Violin shows his debt to...