Daniel Hammersly, cello

Daniel began his studies in earnest at Abingdon School as a music scholar, before attending Durham University. Having achieved a first class degree in music he moved to London to study with Alexander Boyarsky at the Royal College of Music and subsequently with Louise Hopkins. Within six months of completing his postgraduate studies Daniel had been appointed a member of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

His RPO career spanned almost ten years under the directorship of two great maestros; Daniele Gatti and Charles Dutoit, and included numerous tours of North America and Europe as well as visits to China, Korea and Japan.

In 2012 Daniel was thrilled to be offered the position of Principal Cello with Royal Northern Sinfonia and is now very proud to call the North East his home. He lives in Tynemouth minutes from Longsands beach where he indulges his new found interest in surfing.
Daniel remains a cellist in demand as a both chamber and orchestral musician and works regularly in London with the BBC Symphony Orchestra, particularly during the Proms season.
He has appeared with Sting as principal cello of the European leg of the Symphonicities tour and with Danish art-rockers Efterklang as well as making regular appearances with composer Anna Meredith’s eclectic band Horsebox.
Daniel plays a distinctive modern Italian cello by Guillermo Rossi, made in Pavia in 1925.

Christian Martinez, percussion

Christian Martinez commenced his percussion studies in his home town of Cali in Columbia. Later followed studies at the Manhattan School of Music in New York and at Rogaland Music Conservatory in Stavanger. In 1996 he graduated from the Royal Danish Academy of Music in Copenhagen, the same year he became a member of Esbjerg Ensemble.

Christian Martínez has participated as a chamber musician and soloist at several festivals and concerts in Scandinavia,Europe, USA, Latin America and Taiwan. Most recently at the Nordic Music Days Festival in 2010, Athelas New Music Festival in 2011, Percussion Plus Festival Aarhus in 2012 and Kalliokuninkala Festival in 2012 and Percussion Plusin 2014, both in Finland. In January 2014, Esbjerg Ensemble collaborated with “the king” of baritones, Omar Ebrahim, in the first Scandinavian performance of György Kurtágs, “Pas a pas, nulle-part” for baritone, string trio and percussion.

In the year 2010, Christian Martinez released his first soloCD “Rhythmical Séance” with Per Nørgård’s I Ching as well as pieces by Ivar Frounberg and Ejnar Kanding. The collaboration with Nørgård led to 2 new pieces included in this CD: a concerto for percussion and ensemble called Three Scenes as well as Arabesques I, II, III (2011) for solo percussion. Both pieces are dedicated to Christian Martínez and Esbjerg Ensemble.

Aros Guitar Duo

Mikkel Egelund Nielsen and Simon Wildau, both highly accomplished classical guitarists, first met during their studies at the Royal Academy of Music in Aarhus, Denmark. Their mutual passion for guitar performance and chamber music led them to form the AROS Guitar Duo in 2009. The duo was initially created to perform a series of concerts in Bergen, Norway, but their collaboration quickly evolved into a long-term musical partnership that has seen them perform extensively in Denmark and internationally.

Both Nielsen and Wildau have achieved significant success both as soloists and as a duo, earning prestigious awards at numerous international competitions. Their accolades include the 1st prize at the Omiš Guitar Fest in Croatia, the 1st prize at the Fiuggi International Guitar Festival in Italy, the 2nd prize at the Acerra International Guitar Competition in Italy, and most recently, the 1st prize at the Liechtensteiner Gitarrentage in 2018. Additionally, in 2017, they were honored with a special prize for the best performance of a new Danish work at the P2 Chamber Music Competition for their rendition of John Frandsen’s guitar duo “Twilight.”

Individually, both guitarists have completed advanced studies in music. Mikkel Egelund Nielsen holds a Master’s Degree in Music from the prestigious Hochschule für Musik und Tanz in Cologne, Germany. Simon Wildau, on the other hand, earned his Master’s Degree in Music from the Escola Superior de Música de Catalunya in Barcelona, Spain. Their rigorous academic backgrounds have provided them with a strong foundation in classical guitar performance and have significantly shaped their musical careers.

Furthering their education, both Nielsen and Wildau completed the advanced postgraduate diploma (soloist class) at The Royal Academy of Music in Aarhus. In September 2018, they made their debut as a duo from the advanced postgraduate diploma (soloist level) at the Royal Danish Academy of Music in Copenhagen. Their studies were guided by Associate Professor in classical guitar Jesper Sivebæk and Professor Tim Frederiksen, both of whom are renowned for their expertise and contributions to the field of classical music.

The AROS Guitar Duo has also sought to expand their artistic horizons through international studies and masterclasses. Between 2010 and 2011, they studied in Barcelona with the esteemed Spanish guitarist Àlex Garrobé. Additionally, they have attended masterclasses conducted by various international soloists and professors, further refining their technique and interpretive skills.

Over the years, the AROS Guitar Duo has performed at numerous prestigious venues and festivals, captivating audiences with their technical proficiency, expressive performances, and dynamic repertoire. Their dedication to both classical and contemporary works has established them as a prominent duo in the classical guitar world.

Nielsen and Wildau’s partnership is characterized by a deep musical understanding and a shared commitment to excellence. Their ability to seamlessly blend their individual talents into a cohesive and compelling musical dialogue has been a hallmark of their performances. The duo’s success in competitions and their critical acclaim highlight their standing as one of the leading guitar duos of their generation.

As they continue to perform and expand their repertoire, the AROS Guitar Duo remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of classical guitar music. Their journey from their formative years at the Royal Academy of Music in Aarhus to their current status as award-winning musicians is a testament to their hard work, passion, and unwavering dedication to their craft.

Joke Wijma, horn

Joke Wijma has been a member of Esbjerg Ensemble since 2005.

“Playing Peter Maxwell Davies’ “Sea Eagle” for solo horn outdoors, while a bird of prey show took place, has been the most remarkable experience I have had with the Ensemble.”

After studying with Frank Brouns and Hans Dullarert at the Conservatory in Groningen, Joke Wijma continued her studies at the Hochschule for Music and Theatre in Hamburg, where the Dutch hornist Ab Koster was professor.

After graduating in 2004, she continued her studies with Koster as well as working with the Duisburger Philharmoniker as an intern.

Ron Chen-Zion, clarinet

Ron Chen-Zion has been a member of Esbjerg Ensemble since 1993. The Esbjerg Ensemble, Denmark’s oldest professional international chamber music ensemble, is renowned for its dynamic performances and commitment to contemporary and classical repertoire, contributing significantly to the international and Danish music scene.

“When I was 11, I happened to get the mail one day and found among them an advertisement that read: “Learn to play an instrument inonly three months”.

When I subsequently turned up at the music school, they only had one instrument for loan: the clarinet. We were two students who had to share the instrument and because we had clarinet lessons onThursdays, the other student and I each had the clarinet three days a week”.Ron Chen-Zion began his studies with Richard Lesser of the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra.

In 1986 he moved to the US where he continued his studies and graduated from the New England Conservatory.

In 1990, Ron Chen–Zion was appointed solo clarinetist atThe State of Mexico Symphony Orchestra. As achamber musician, he has quite frequently been invited to Rudolf Serkins Marlboro Music Festival in the United States and has performed in most of Europe, Israel and the Americas. Ron Chen-Zion has recorded several CDs, including one highly praised rendering of Max Regers’ pieces for clarinet and piano.

Kerstin Thiele, flute

Kerstin Thiele has been a member of the Esbjerg Ensemble since 1986. The Esbjerg Ensemble, Denmark’s oldest professional international chamber music ensemble, is renowned for its dynamic performances and commitment to contemporary and classical repertoire, contributing significantly to the international and Danish music scene.

“It was a fortunate coincidence that led me to start playing the flute. My sister and father were part of the local brass band, and when they needed a flute player, I gladly took on the position.”

Kerstin is a board member, appointed by her fellow musicians. She pursued her studies with solo flutist Toke Lund Christiansen at the Royal Danish Academy of Music and Professor Andre Jaunet in Zurich.

In addition to her role in the Esbjerg Ensemble, Kerstin Thiele actively participates in the music scene both domestically and internationally. She also serves as a teacher at the South Jutland Academy of Music.

David Daniel Dinu, oboe

David Daniel Dinu, born in Bucharest in 1999, is a highly skilled oboe player currently based in Copenhagen. His musical journey began at a young age, and he has since developed into a prominent figure in the classical music world.

Dinu completed his Bachelor’s degree at the National University of Music in Bucharest, where he received rigorous training and honed his craft. His dedication and talent were evident early on, paving the way for advanced studies. Seeking to further his expertise, Dinu enrolled in a postgraduate degree at the Royal Danish Academy of Music in Copenhagen. Here, he is under the tutelage of Professor Max Artved, a distinguished oboist known for his exceptional teaching and performance career.

Throughout his studies and professional career, Dinu has gained extensive performance experience with several prestigious orchestras. He has played with Tivoli’s Promenade Orchestra, the Danish Chamber Orchestra, the Copenhagen Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Danish Radio Symphony Orchestra. These opportunities have allowed him to showcase his technical prowess and musical sensitivity, earning him recognition and respect within the classical music community.

In addition to these accomplishments, David Daniel Dinu has secured the esteemed position of oboist with the Esbjerg Ensemble. The Esbjerg Ensemble is Denmark’s most distinguished professional international chamber music group, renowned for its dynamic performances and dedication to both contemporary and classical repertoire. The ensemble’s contributions to the Danish music scene are significant, and Dinu’s role within the group highlights his exceptional talent and versatility as a musician.

Dinu’s involvement with the Esbjerg Ensemble allows him to engage in a wide range of musical activities, from performing intricate chamber works to participating in innovative musical projects. The ensemble’s commitment to artistic excellence and its vibrant presence in the Danish music scene provide Dinu with a platform to further develop his artistry and collaborate with other top-tier musicians.

In his relatively short but already impressive career, David Daniel Dinu has demonstrated a deep commitment to his craft. His performances are characterized by their expressive depth, technical accuracy, and a profound understanding of the oboe’s unique voice. As he continues to grow as an artist, Dinu’s contributions to both the Danish and international music scenes are poised to expand, further establishing him as a leading oboist of his generation.

Antti Salovaara, bassoon

Antti Salovaara is a prominent Finnish bassoonist whose journey with the bassoon began at the esteemed Sibelius Academy in Helsinki. He studied under the tutelage of Jaakko Luoma, a notable figure in the world of bassoon pedagogy. Seeking to expand his horizons, Salovaara continued his education at the Conservatoire de Paris with Laurent Lefèvre, and later at the Hochschule für Musik, Theater und Medien Hannover with Bence Bogányi. He graduated from Hannover in 2018, rounding out a robust and diverse educational background that has significantly shaped his musical career.

Salovaara’s professional career is marked by his membership in the Esbjerg Ensemble, where he has been a key player since 2017. The ensemble is known for its dynamic performances and innovative programming, allowing Salovaara to showcase his skills in various settings and genres.

In addition to his role in the Esbjerg Ensemble, Salovaara is a member of Tölöläb, an electroacoustic experimental woodwind group based in Helsinki. This group is known for pushing the boundaries of traditional woodwind performance, blending electronic elements with classical music to create unique auditory experiences. His work with Tölöläb highlights his versatility and willingness to explore new musical territories.

Salovaara is deeply committed to chamber music and regularly collaborates with composers to expand the bassoon’s solo and chamber repertoire. His contributions to chamber music are marked by a passion for improvisation and a keen interest in contemporary music. This has led him to work on several innovative projects, bringing new compositions and fresh interpretations to the stage.

As a soloist, Salovaara has performed with various orchestras, demonstrating his technical prowess and expressive capabilities. His solo performances are noted for their lyrical beauty and the depth of his musical interpretations, engaging audiences and critics alike.

Outside of his professional life, Antti Salovaara is an avid runner and sports enthusiast. He enjoys discussing sports and stays active through his athletic pursuits, which provide a balanced counterpoint to his musical endeavours.

Antti Salovaara’s career as a bassoonist is distinguished by his extensive education, professional achievements, and innovative contributions to both traditional and contemporary music. His work with the Esbjerg Ensemble and Tölöläb showcases his versatility and commitment to pushing the boundaries of classical music. As he continues to perform and collaborate, Salovaara remains a significant figure in the world of bassoon music, dedicated to expanding the instrument’s repertoire and inspiring new generations of musicians.

Kristoffer Nyholm Hyldig, piano

Kristoffer Nyholm Hyldig is a distinguished Danish pianist from Bornholm, celebrated for his interpretations of the solo piano works by French composer Olivier Messiaen. He graduated from the Royal Danish Academy of Music in 2010, studying under Professor Niklas Sivelöv and Tove Lønskov. His chamber music debut came in 2016 with Trio Nord.

As a soloist, Hyldig has performed with prominent orchestras, including the Aalborg Symphony Orchestra, CPH Phil, and the Royal Danish Orchestra. He is a frequent performer at music societies and festivals, both in Denmark and internationally. His international appearances include performances in Italy, Germany, Poland, England, China, and the United States, with notable concerts at Carnegie Hall in New York.

Since 2006, Hyldig has released numerous recordings featuring lieder, chamber music, and solo works by composers such as Debussy, Ravel, Messiaen, Bent Sørensen, and Hindemith. He is actively involved in various chamber music collaborations, including the Messiaen Quartet Copenhagen and a lieder partnership with internationally renowned Wagnerian soprano Brit-Tone Müllertz.

Hyldig has received several prestigious awards, including the jury’s special prize at the EU Piano Competition in 2009, the Jakob Gade’s Grant, the Léonie Sonning Scholarship, and the Danish Music Critics’ Artist Prize.

Additionally, he is part of the Bruun Hyldig Duo with mezzo-soprano Hetna Regitze Bruun. Since 2006, the duo has specialized in 20th-century repertoire, particularly the vocal music of Messiaen. They have performed extensively across Denmark, Great Britain, Germany, France, Italy, and the USA, gaining acclaim for their recordings, including the Naxos release of Messiaen’s “Harawi” and other works by Danish composers.

Kristoffer Hyldig continues to be a significant figure in the Danish music scene, known for his technical prowess, expressive depth, and dedication to contemporary and classical repertoire.

Michel Camille, viola

Michel Camille has been an integral part of the Esbjerg Ensemble since 1995, serving as the viola player and, from 1997 to 2001, as the Ensemble’s Artistic Director. In 1999, he founded the Esbjerg International Chamber Music Festival, where he continues to serve as Artistic and Administrative Director. Under his leadership, the festival has flourished, collaborating with Denmark’s most notable composers and inviting distinguished chamber musicians and soloists from around the globe, thereby establishing a significant cultural event in Denmark’s musical landscape.

The Esbjerg Ensemble, Denmark’s most distinguished professional international chamber ensemble, is renowned for its dynamic performances and commitment to contemporary and classical repertoire, contributing significantly to the Danish music scene.

Michel Camille’s musical journey began early, winning a full scholarship to Wells Cathedral School at age 11, where he received an intense musical education. This prestigious specialist music school provided him with rigorous training and frequent performance opportunities, both as a soloist and ensemble musician. During this formative period, Michel Camille had the privilege of performing with legendary figures such as Yehudi Menuhin, Yfrah Neamen, Norman del Mar, and Igor Ozim, showcasing his talent in concert halls across Europe and further afield.

At 18, Michel Camille’s burgeoning talent was recognised through numerous awards for his solo and chamber music performances in London. He won the “Premier Prix” at the Guildhall School of Music, where he studied under the esteemed Professor David Takeno, and later the “Concerto Prize” at Banff Fine Arts, cementing his reputation as a formidable viola player. His early professional career included significant roles as principal violist with prestigious orchestras such as the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, the London Musici, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and the City of London Sinfonia.

Opting to dedicate himself entirely to chamber music, Michel Camille has since performed extensively on the international stage. His collaborations span both classical and contemporary genres, working with renowned international chamber ensembles and contributing to a vibrant and diverse repertoire. As an Artistic Director, Michel Camille is celebrated for his innovative programming and creative collaborations, which often blend music with other art forms, such as dance and puppet theatre. His initiatives have brought fresh and colourful dimensions to the chamber music scene, making significant contributions to its evolution and accessibility.

In addition to his performance and directorial roles, Michel Camille has also been a dedicated educator, mentoring young musicians and sharing his expertise through masterclasses and workshops. His commitment to music education and community engagement underscores his dedication to fostering the next generation of musicians and expanding the reach of chamber music.

Michel Camille’s career is marked by a dedication to enriching the chamber music scene with dynamic performances and creative artistic leadership. His work has not only advanced his own artistry but has also left a lasting impact on the musical community, inspiring both audiences and fellow musicians alike.