Yu&I Duo

Violinist YuEun Gemma Kim and guitarist Ines Thomé come together as Yu&I Duo, a chamber ensemble rooted in global cultures and elevated by refined artistry. Kim, from South Korea, and Thomé, from Germany, met while studying in Los Angeles and formed a musical partnership that transcends borders and genres.

Their programs draw on a wide range of repertoire—from baroque and early music to tangos, folk-inspired melodies, film themes and inventive new arrangements. In concert, you might hear the sensual rhythms of Piazzolla’s Histoire du Tango, virtuosic gestures from Paganini or Bartók, popular themes reimagined for violin and guitar, and original works that reflect the duo’s dual heritage and adventurous spirit.

At the upcoming performance at Sierra Madre Playhouse, audiences will experience an evening of elegance and discovery: intimate interplay, tonal warmth, and musical storytelling that invites listening across centuries and styles. The close setting makes every phrase clear, every subtle shift audible, and every dynamic change meaningful—perfect for chamber music lovers and curious listeners alike.