Twee jonge muzikanten, gevlucht uit eigen land en elkaar ontmoet op het conservatorium in Zwolle; werken nu samen om muziek onder de mensen te brengen. U hoort Beethoven, Mozart, Grieg, Calace en Stravinskiy op piano en mandoline - zoals u de werken nog nooit eerder hebt gehoord.

“Mara Duo” is an ensemble created in 2024, which consists of two Ukrainian musicians, Denys Sukmanovskyi (piano) and Amalia Houri (mandolin) . Coming from different parts of Ukraine, but brought together by the need to flee, they are dedicated to share Romantic and Classical Music live on various stages and for various audiences. Using the skills acquired in their Motherland, they are bringing Ukrainian Art of Performing onto Dutch stages. In the concerts of “Mara Duo” you can hear works of Beethoven, Mozart, Grieg, Calace, Stravinskiy and many other compositions. The unique duo of mandolin and piano is very uncommon in the Classical Scene of the Netherlands, but highly enjoyable and unique experience, which you have a chance to experience yourself!

Separate biographies of both musicians:

Amalia Houri is 21 years old. Born in Ukraine, she started her journey, as a musician 15 years ago with Ukrainian folk instrument domra. During studying in music school, Amalia added to her education another instrument, mandolin. After a life changing decision to become a professional musician, new opportunities has been opening throughout her life: first she is getting professional musical education in Kharkiv High College of Arts, then has been enrolled in ArtEZ Conservatory in Zwolle, what is for her a dream, which came true.

Amalia has been experienced in different kinds of musician roles: as a soloist, ensemble member, conductor, arranger, orchestra member, teacher, accompanist etc.

She has participated in many local competitions in time she was in Ukraine, where she has taken many second and first prises.

Sukmanovskyi Denys is 20 years old. Born in Ukraine, got my first piano lessons at the age of 7-8 years old in Zolochiv music school (2013-2019). Studied in the Stanislav Liudkevych Music Professional College of Lviv (2019-2023). Currently studying in ArtEZ Conservatory in Zwolle, main subject teacher Sepp Grotenhuis. Experienced as ensemble member, orchestra member, accompanist.

During the studying attended festivals/competitions:

Laureate at the V. Barvinsky International piano Competition (2018)

finalist of Montecatini international piano Competition (2022)

Second prize at 12th international piano competition Milan (Italy) 2023.