Erato
...the muse of lyric poetry, her name derives from the Greek Eros (love), and translates as "passionate." She was the most famous of the Muses, sister goddesses in Greek mythology, each of whom was regarded as the protectress of a different art or science.

"But when Erato brushed her flowery lute,
What strains of sweetness whispered in the wind!
Soft as at evening when the shepherd's flute
To tones of melting love alone resigned,
Breathes through the windings of the silent vale;
Complaining accents tremble on the gale,
Or notes of ecstacy serenely roll.
So when the smiling muse of Cupid sung,
Her melody sighed out the sorrowing soul,
Or o'er her silken chords
sweet notes of gladness rung."

from An Ode To Music, by James G. Percival

In October 2000, long-time friends Risa Carlson and Martha Masters reunited at the prestigious Guitar Foundation of America International Competition in San Antonio, where both emerged as prizewinners. Of their performances in the finals, Soundboard magazine said, "Risa Carlson played with poise, a fine silvery tone, and few if any errors…," and the San Antonio Express- News said, "Masters put her ample dexterity to good use…her control of instrumental color was exemplary." Risa and Martha began playing together in 1992 at the suggestion of their teacher, Manuel Barrueco, while studying at the Peabody Conservatory in Baltimore. The duo (named for Erato, the muse of love poetry) quickly discovered a natural affinity, and success soon followed. They won first prize in the 1994 National Guitar Summer Workshop Competition for chamber ensembles, and were finalists in the 1994 Baltimore Chamber Music Awards. Shortly thereafter, Martha moved to Los Angeles to pursue graduate studies at the University of Southern California with Scott Tennant, while Risa continued her studies with Barrueco. In addition to competing as soloists in San Antonio, the duo performed for the Assads at the convention, rekindling their interest in performing together. Risa lives in the Baltimore area and is Chair of the guitar department of the Levine School of Music in Washington, D.C. Martha lives in Los Angeles and is on faculty at Loyola Marymount University. The two meet regularly in Baltimore or Los Angeles to rehearse.