Duo Ermitage

Formed in 2018 by cellist Paul-Marie Kuzma and pianist Ionah Maiatsky, the Ermitage duo was born out of the two musicians’ shared interest in research, innovation, and exploration of the chamber music repertoire, particularly that of the piano-cello sonata. This shared love led them to produce an in-depth musical reflection and work on their repertoire, approaching it on an equal footing, like a chamber music ensemble.

In 2022, they won second prize at the Lyon International Chamber Music Competition and the La Belle Saison prize, which earned them support and performances at numerous venues such as Les Bouffes du Nord in Paris. In September 2024, they were selected by the École Normale Supérieure de Musique to join its Elite program, where they are mentored by cellist Victor Julien Laferrière and pianist Jonas Vitaud.

Both graduates of the Paris Conservatory (CNSMDP), Paul-Marie Kuzma and Ionah Maiatsky studied chamber music under Claire Désert, François Salque, Itamar Golan, and Jonas Vitaud. Their career path has also led them to participate in masterclasses with renowned artists such as Gary Hoffman and the Ébène Quartet.

The duo has performed at prestigious music festivals such as Les Chaises Musicales, Les Pianissimes, and Les Concerts de Poche. In 2024, they recorded their first album, “Ermitage,” featuring works by Poulenc, Roslavets, and Rachmaninov, with Scala Music.

Paul-Marie and Ionah continue to explore new repertoires, particularly contemporary works, and perform regularly at various festivals and concerts in France and internationally.