The ‘best of his works’: so Beethoven described his String Trios op.9 when they were published in July 1798. And indeed, the young composer surpassed himself throughout a triptych of works combining beauty of sound, formal originality, and a high degree of instrumental virtuosity. The Trio Arnold, one of the few permanent ensembles specializing in the string trio repertory, brings to these masterpieces the right blend of perfectionism and intensity that makes for great interpretations.