Cooper Joseph Kendall and Semyon Berezin became collaborators in the autumn of 2022. Since then, the duo has received far reaching acclaim for their interpretations of a variety of composers including Haydn, Beethoven, Schubert, Schumann, Poulenc, Barber, Medtner, and student songs.
The duo joined the academic gymnastics club Alemannia Basel in the spring of 2023, and immediately took a strong interest in the element of song. Fast forward two years, and the last copies of their acclaimed first CD ‘Studentenleben’ sold out. With this, Cooper decided to get to work, and in August 2025, Semyon and Cooper recorded 15 more unique pieces using a historic and gorgeous concert grand made by the firm Érard in 1850.
Cooper also took on a new role this time around as illustrator. Cooper started by designing a simplistic, retro, yet bold cover; and then quickly found himself committing to something for every song. By the time August came around, he had amassed over 20 unique drawings. Some are simple and took a couple of hours, while some took a week or more. Lots of trial and error resulted in something really fun that he’s beyond excited to share.
The satisfaction of creating a team of supporters is also something that keeps Cooper going and feeling motivated. On the 23rd of August, a special fundraising concert was held, with this wonderful instrument at the Salon des Pianos in Basel. Over 60 individuals helped to make the project and its many expenses reachable. This financial support is extremely appreciated, and without it, the project could never be brought to fruition.
