Mission Impossible: R2ViolinCello blends cinematic scores with Bangkok’s classical scene
11 h
Newsdesk
Husband-and-wife duo R2ViolinCello—comprising violinist Rhys Watkins and cellist Rowena Calvert—are set to redefine classical crossover with the release of their highly anticipated EP, Mission Impossible, available on December 5, 2025. The duo will mark the launch with a special concert at the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok on December 7.
The EP is a bold cinematic project, taking four legendary film scores and re-imagining them for the rare and intimate pairing of violin and cello, augmented by large-scale electronic sound architecture.
A Powerful, Cinematic Tracklist
The four-track EP dives into iconic Hollywood music, including:
"Mission Impossible" "Duel of the Fates" "Imperial March" "Schindler’s List"
Conceived during the COVID lockdowns, the project challenged composer Simon Parkin to adapt epic orchestral works into technically dazzling duets. Sound designer Albin Dominic (India) then layered electronic backdrops to restore the "orchestral scale" of the originals. “It proved that two instruments, when supported by bold sound architecture, can compete with the power of a full orchestra,” says Rowena Calvert.
From LSO Stages to Thailand’s Rising Scene
Rhys Watkins, a Welsh violinist, spent 17 years as a member of the London Symphony Orchestra, and his playing features on over 100 major films, including Harry Potter, Star Wars, and The Avengers. Rowena Calvert, a British cellist and former member of the acclaimed Cavaleri String Quartet, has performed on soundtracks for Mission Impossible and Wonder Woman.
The duo formed R2ViolinCello while livestreaming for the LSO during the pandemic. A year later, they relocated to Bangkok, where they met producer Chris Craker (former Vice President of Sony Music, New York). Their collaboration at Craker’s world-renowned Karma Studios solidified their artistic direction, opening doors to their new R2 International Concert Series and shaping this EP.
The Mission Impossible EP captures the duo's remarkable journey, which includes performing for Sir Paul McCartney and Elton John, and even once running candle-lit concerts from their houseboats on the River Thames. The release marks a significant moment in Bangkok’s growing international classical music scene.
