The Essex Piano Trio has adopted the signature title “Conversation among Friends” for its concerts. Borrowed from a quotation by American biographer Catherine Bowen (1897-1973) who defined chamber music as “a conversation between friends,” this descriptive title relates strongly to the players’ approach to the music and to each other. The carborundum etching entitled “Trio” on the program cover is by the WPA-era American artist Hilda Husik.