IN THIS RECORDING, the Elaris Duo traces the history and development of the violin-cello duo genre from early works of Boccherini and Haydn, reaching an instrumental and compositional zenith in the monumental Kodaly Op.7 Duo. Varied in its content, this program of original compositions for violin and cello, and adaptations/transcriptions of duos performed in alternative instrumental versions, reflect a wide range of styles and display virtuosity with a wonderful versatility of instrumental colors. The intriguing dialogue between these two solo voices express a true collaboration offering an exciting give and take of thematic counterpoint with varying harmonic textures, ultimately capturing the magic and quintessence of chamber music. LARISA AND STEVEN ELISHA are each internationally acclaimed artists who have distinguished themselves around the world as soloists, chamber musicians and teachers. Together they are the incomparable Elaris Duo whose electrifying performances and consummate artistry have delighted audiences from the moment their association began. Recipients of the prestigious 2008 Governor s Arts Award in the category of Artist, the Elaris Duo have been awarded a Chamber Music America Residency Grant for 2005-2006, Musicians of the Year 2003 by the Kansas Federation of Music Clubs and selected for the Kansas Artists on Tour Program roster. In March, 2008, the duo appeared as featured soloists with the Taiwan National Arts Orchestra in the famed National Hall and in January, 2007 presented a performance at the Hawaii International Conference for Arts and Humanities.