Meraki is a dynamic clarinet and piano ensemble dedicated to awakening cultural compassion through music. The ensemble is co-founded by former classmates, Anastasia Christofakis, clarinet, and Elizabeth G. Hill, piano. With a shared passion for storytelling through music, the duo explores a diverse repertoire ranging from classical masterpieces to contemporary works and innovative arrangements. Known for their chemistry and artistry, the Meraki duo strives to create immersive concert experiences that connect deeply with their audiences. Meraki’s recurring focus is the music of “Essence” that evokes the culture and history of people through their folk sound and musical language. They are recipients of Chamber Music America’s 2018 Classical Commissioning Grant for their collaboration with award-winning composer, Jerod Tate. Their debut album, Within, was released by Equilibrium Records in December 2022.
Their name, “Meraki,” a Greek word meaning to do something with soul, creativity, and love, reflects their commitment to heartfelt and inspiring performances.
Anastasia Christofakis is an accomplished clarinetist known for her versatility and dedication to both performance and education. Hailing from a rich cultural background, her artistry is deeply rooted in both classical traditions and modern interpretations, allowing her to bridge a variety of musical styles with technical proficiency and emotional depth. She has performed extensively across the United States and internationally, captivating audiences with her dynamic performances and expressive playing. She currently serves as Assistant Professor of Clarinet at Furman University in Greenville, SC. Outside of her teaching schedule, Anastasia enjoys collaborating with others to expand the scope and diversity of new music, as well as its accessibility. In addition to her role with Meraki, Anastasia also performs and serves as the Vice President of Education and Community Outreach of What is Noise – an award-winning Pierrot ensemble made up of musicians from around the world. A non-profit organization, What is Noise focuses its mission on building community through music. Originally from New York, Anastasia holds degrees from James Madison University (BM), Roosevelt University (MM), and Florida State University (DM). She is a Royal Global Performance Artist and performs on Firebird clarinets and Brian Corbin clarinet products.
A recognized leader in chamber music and contemporary music advocacy, pianist Elizabeth G. Hill has performed across the US and Europe in service of her life’s work: joining cultures together through music. In addition to her role as co-founder of Meraki, She is also pianist for Balance Campaign, a chamber ensemble whose focus lies exclusively on commissioning and performing works by marginalized composers. She currently also serves as the pianist for the National Philharmonic. An active pedagogue, Elizabeth is a private piano teacher in the DC-metro area, and is a member of the Collaborative Piano Faculty at the Heifetz International Music Institute. Originally raised in Anchorage, Alaska, Elizabeth holds degrees from Mary Baldwin College (B.A.), James Madison University (M.M.), and The Catholic University of America (D.M.A. with a specialization in Chamber Music).
Selected Past Performances:
Furman University | Greenville, SC | January 2024
UNCG School of Music | Greensboro, NC | November 2023
ClarinetFest 2022 | Reno, NV | June 2022
New Music DC 2019 | Washington, DC | September 2019
“Kammermusik am Mittag” Series | Goethe-Institut | Washington, DC | April 2018
Northeast Regional Conference of the College Music Society | University of Delaware | January 2018
The Church of the Intercession | New York, NY | November 2017
Oklahoma City University | Oklahoma City, OK | April 2017
Amro Steinway Gallery | Memphis, TN | September 2016
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith | Fort Smith, AR | September 2016
Mary Baldwin College | Staunton, VA | September 2016
Florida State University | Tallahassee, FL | April 2015
Selected Educational and Community Outreach:
Furman University | Greenville, SC | Student Q&A; Clarinet and piano coachings
UNCG School of Music | Greensboro, NC | Guest Artists – Clarinet Day | Clarinet and piano masterclasses
Oklahoma City University | Oklahoma City, OK | Clarinet and piano masterclasses, composers forum
Mary Baldwin College | Staunton, VA | Latin-American music discussion
Selected Media Appearances:
PBS: WCNY | Interview with Anthony R. Green | March 2023
Chamber Music America | Press Release | July 2018
Staunton News Leader | Entertainment: Interview | September 2016
National Public Radio: WEMC | “Airplay” | Sonata for Clarinet and Piano (Guastavino) | August 2016