Formed in 2018 by cellist Paul-Marie Kuzma and pianist Ionah Maiatsky, the Ermitage Duo was born from the two musicians’ shared passion for research, innovation, and exploration of the chamber music repertoire, particularly the piano-cello sonata. This common love has led them to engage in deep musical reflection and meticulous work on their repertoire, approaching it on equal footing, much like a chamber music ensemble.
In 2022, they won second prize at the Lyon International Chamber Music Competition, as well as the La Belle Saison award, which has provided them with support and opportunities to perform in renowned 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 will be mentored by cellist Victor Julien-Laferrière and pianist Jonas Vitaud.