Translation guide
A musical ensemble of three instruments, or a piece of music written for such a group. In Japanese, the term depends on the type of instruments and context.
To refer to a trio of instruments in a general sense, without specifying the type.
General term for a trio performance by three instruments. Often used in classical music contexts.
彼らはピアノ三重奏を演奏した。
They performed a piano trio.
Loanword from English/Italian, commonly used for any trio, especially in jazz or popular music.
ジャズトリオのライブに行った。
I went to a jazz trio concert.
To specify the exact instruments in the trio, using standard classical music terminology.
Piano trio (piano, violin, cello). The most common type of instrumental trio.
このピアノ三重奏は美しい旋律で知られている。
This piano trio is known for its beautiful melody.
String trio (violin, viola, cello).
弦楽三重奏のための作品を作曲した。
I composed a piece for string trio.
Wind trio (various combinations of wind instruments).
管楽三重奏はフルート、クラリネット、ファゴットで構成されることが多い。
A wind trio is often composed of flute, clarinet, and bassoon.
To refer to the musical composition itself, rather than the group.
A trio piece or composition. Often used for classical works.
ベートーヴェンの三重奏曲を練習している。
I'm practicing Beethoven's trio piece.
Also used for the piece itself, especially in non-classical genres.
このアルバムには美しいトリオが収録されている。
This album includes a beautiful trio.
三重奏 is more formal and typically used in classical music contexts. トリオ is a casual loanword used broadly for any trio, including jazz, rock, or pop groups. For classical ensembles, 三重奏 is preferred, but トリオ is also understood.