Sofia Obando, bassoon

Sofia Obando is a Costa Rican bassoonist based in Denmark. She began her musical studies in Costa Rica before continuing her education at the University of Sydney, where she completed her Bachelors in Music Performance. She is currently completing a Masters degree in Bassoon Performance at the Staatliche Hochschule für Musik und Darstellende Kunst Mannheim, studying with renowned professor Ole Kristian Dahl.

Throughout her career, Sofia Obando has performed with numerous orchestras across Europe, including the Danish National Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Danish Orchestra, the Norwegian Wind Ensemble, Malmö Opera, Kammerphilharmonie Mannheim, Philharmonie Salzburg, and several German orchestras as both principal and section bassoonist. Her orchestral experience spans symphonic, operatic, and chamber repertoire, collaborating with musicians and conductors in Denmark, Germany, Australia, Sweden, Norway, and Austria.

A recipient of the prestigious DAAD scholarship and Dean’s list of excellence, Sofia Obando has also received international recognition through competition success, including first prize at the Sydney Conservatorium Bassoon Concerto Competition and third prize at the Ollin Yoliztli Bassoon Conference Competition in Mexico. She has further developed her artistry through masterclasses with distinguished bassoonists including Gustavo Núñez, Lyndon Watts, Rainer Luft, Eckart Hübner and Fredrik Ekdahl.

In 2026, Sofia Obando joined the Esbjerg Ensemble, where she enjoys exploring a diverse repertoire ranging from classical masterworks to contemporary chamber music

Juliette Roos

Juliette Roos is a British violinist internationally recognised for her work as a chamber musician, soloist and orchestral leader. Acclaimed for her expressive playing, technical brilliance and musical versatility, she has established herself as one of the most compelling violinists of her generation. Equally at home as a soloist, chamber musician and ensemble player, Juliette Roos performs regularly throughout Europe and has appeared in many of the continent’s leading concert halls, festivals and chamber music series.

Juliette Roos’s Early Musical Life and Education

Born in London into the fourth generation of a distinguished musical family, Juliette Roos began playing the violin at the age of five. Her musical gifts were recognised early, and after studying at the Junior Department of the Royal Academy of Music she was admitted to the prestigious Yehudi Menuhin School, where she studied with Professor Lutsia Ibragimova.

In 2012 she gained national attention as a string finalist in the BBC Young Musician competition and was awarded the Walter Todd’s Bursary Prize, becoming one of the most highly regarded young violinists of her generation in the United Kingdom. Following her studies at the Yehudi Menuhin School, Juliette continued her musical education at the Haute École de Musique de Lausanne, site de Sion, Switzerland, under the guidance of the celebrated violinist Pavel Vernikov. She later completed postgraduate studies and a fellowship at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, where she studied with the renowned violin pedagogue David Takeno.

Juliette Roos as Soloist

As a soloist, Juliette Roos has performed concertos with orchestras including the City of Southampton Orchestra, the Lithuanian Chamber Orchestra and the Odessa Opera House Orchestra. Her concerto repertoire ranges from the great classical and romantic works to twentieth-century masterpieces, and her performances are admired for their combination of technical assurance, stylistic sensitivity and emotional depth.

Following her success in BBC Young Musician, she appeared in performances of Bruch’s Violin Concerto, Beethoven’s Triple Concerto and Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending, further establishing her reputation as one of Britain’s most promising young violinists.

Juliette Roos and Chamber Music

Chamber music occupies a central place in Juliette Roos’s artistic life. She has performed in major venues including the Barbican Concert Hall, Wigmore Hall, Canterbury Cathedral and the Odessa Opera House, and has participated in internationally renowned festivals and academies including Open Chamber Music at Prussia Cove, Yellow Barn in the United States, Four Seasons Chamber Music Festival in North Carolina, Mendelssohn on Mull, and the Seiji Ozawa International String Quartet Academy.

Her chamber music collaborations have brought her together with many distinguished musicians of her generation, and she is admired for her refined ensemble playing, musical imagination and ability to balance individual artistry with genuine collaborative spirit. During her studies at Guildhall, her quartet won first prize in the St James Chamber Music Competition, further highlighting her exceptional abilities as a chamber musician.

Juliette Roos and the Heath Quartet

In recent years Juliette Roos has become increasingly recognised for her work with the internationally acclaimed Heath Quartet. Appointed as joint leader of the ensemble, she performs extensively with the quartet in major concert halls and festivals across Europe and North America.

With the Heath Quartet she has appeared at festivals including the Aldeburgh Festival and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Festspiele, and has performed in venues such as Wigmore Hall and Berlin’s Boulez Saal. The quartet is widely admired for its interpretations of both classical and contemporary repertoire, and its performances have been praised for their depth, energy and intellectual insight.

Alongside her quartet activities, Juliette is also active as an orchestral musician and recording artist. She performs regularly with John Wilson’s acclaimed Sinfonia of London and has participated in several critically praised recordings, including releases featuring music by Ravel and Rachmaninov.

Juliette Roos’s Awards and Recognition

Juliette Roos has received numerous awards and distinctions throughout her career. She was a prizewinner at the Kloster Schöntal International Violin Competition, where she also received a special prize for the best interpretation of a virtuoso work. She has additionally received awards from the Royal Overseas League Competition and bursaries from the Countess of Munster Trust, the ESU Musicians Award and Help Musicians UK through the Manoug Parikian Award.

These honours reflect both her exceptional artistic achievements and the high regard in which she is held by musicians, audiences and institutions alike.

Juliette Roos Today

Today, Juliette Roos enjoys a varied international career combining solo performances, chamber music, recording projects and festival appearances. Her playing is distinguished by its warmth, intelligence and communicative power, qualities that have made her one of the most exciting British violinists of her generation.

Whether appearing as a soloist, performing with the Heath Quartet, collaborating with fellow chamber musicians or participating in major festival projects, Juliette Roos continues to captivate audiences through performances that combine technical mastery with profound musical insight and artistic integrity.

Juhani Lagerspetz

Juhani Lagerspetz is one of Finland’s most distinguished pianists, renowned for his versatility as a soloist, chamber musician, accompanist and teacher. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he has established himself as a leading interpreter of a wide range of repertoire, from the Viennese classics to contemporary music. Equally at home in the recital hall, on the concerto stage and in intimate chamber music settings, Juhani Lagerspetz has become a central figure in Finnish musical life and a respected presence on the international concert scene.

Juhani Lagerspetz’s Early Musical Life

Born in Finland, Juhani Lagerspetz displayed exceptional musical talent from an early age. He began his piano studies in his hometown of Turku and quickly attracted national attention as a young prodigy. At the age of just thirteen, he made his orchestral debut as soloist with the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, performing Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto No. 2. The appearance revealed not only his remarkable technical gifts but also an unusual musical maturity.

Following his early success, Lagerspetz continued his studies at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki before pursuing advanced studies at the Leningrad Conservatoire. The combination of Nordic musical values and the rich Russian piano tradition would become a defining characteristic of his artistic identity.

Juhani Lagerspetz and International Competitions

Juhani Lagerspetz first gained widespread recognition through a series of important competition successes. In 1975 he won First Prize at the Ilmari Hannikainen Piano Competition, followed by First Prize at the prestigious Maj Lind Piano Competition in 1976. These achievements established him as one of Finland’s most promising young pianists.

His international breakthrough came in 1982 when he received a Special Prize at the International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow, one of the world’s most prestigious music competitions. This success brought him increasing international attention and led to a growing number of concert engagements throughout Europe and beyond.

Juhani Lagerspetz as Soloist

Throughout his distinguished career, Juhani Lagerspetz has appeared as soloist with many leading orchestras and conductors. He has collaborated with renowned musical figures including Arvid Jansons, Rudolf Barshai, Paavo Berglund and Esa-Pekka Salonen, performing repertoire ranging from Mozart and Beethoven to Rachmaninov, Prokofiev and contemporary composers.

His performances are admired for their combination of technical command, stylistic understanding and intellectual depth. In addition to performing dozens of piano concertos, he has presented ambitious recital series exploring major cycles of piano literature and significant themes in music history.

Juhani Lagerspetz and Chamber Music

Chamber music has always occupied a central place in Juhani Lagerspetz’s artistic life. He has collaborated with many of the world’s leading instrumentalists, including violinist Ida Haendel and cellists Arto Noras and Truls Mørk. These partnerships have taken him to major festivals, concert halls and chamber music series throughout Europe and Scandinavia.

His chamber music performances are particularly valued for their sensitivity, flexibility and ability to balance individual artistry with true ensemble collaboration. Finland’s internationally renowned Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival is among the institutions that have contributed significantly to the country’s rich chamber music culture and international reputation.

Juhani Lagerspetz as Accompanist and Collaborative Pianist

An accomplished collaborative pianist, Juhani Lagerspetz has worked extensively with distinguished singers. His recital partners have included Elisabeth Söderström, Stephen Genz and Camilla Nylund, among many others. His ability to combine pianistic brilliance with attentive partnership has made him a highly sought-after accompanist in both song and chamber music repertoire.

His work with singers reflects a deep understanding of language, poetry and vocal repertoire, qualities that have contributed significantly to his reputation as one of Finland’s most respected collaborative musicians.

Juhani Lagerspetz’s Recordings and Legacy

Alongside his extensive concert career, Juhani Lagerspetz has made numerous recordings for Finnish radio and international record companies. His discography reflects the breadth of his musical interests and includes solo repertoire, chamber music and concerto recordings.

His recordings have appeared on labels including Ondine Records, one of the leading Nordic classical labels. Through both recordings and live performances he has helped bring Finnish music and musicians to international audiences while continuing to champion the wider piano repertoire.

Juhani Lagerspetz as Teacher and Mentor

In addition to performing, Juhani Lagerspetz has devoted considerable energy to teaching and mentoring younger musicians. Generations of Finnish pianists have benefited from his experience, insight and dedication to musical excellence. His teaching reflects the same combination of intellectual rigour, musical curiosity and artistic integrity that characterises his performances.

More information about his educational work can be found through the University of the Arts Helsinki, where he has contributed significantly to the development of young musicians and Finland’s rich musical culture.

Widely respected for his integrity, musicianship and artistic curiosity, Juhani Lagerspetz continues to inspire audiences and younger generations of musicians alike. As performer, chamber musician, accompanist and teacher, he has made a lasting contribution to Nordic and international musical life and remains one of Finland’s most admired musical ambassadors.

Pablo Hernán Benedí, violin

Pablo Hernán Benedí

Pablo Hernán Benedí is one of the most distinguished Spanish violinists of his generation, celebrated internationally for his work as a chamber musician, soloist and orchestral leader. Renowned for his expressive artistry, stylistic versatility and deep commitment to chamber music, Pablo Hernán Benedí has established a remarkable international career that spans the world’s leading concert halls, festivals and recording studios. Through his work with the internationally acclaimed Chiaroscuro Quartet, the award-winning Trio Isimsiz and numerous orchestral and solo projects, he has become one of the most respected violinists on the European musical scene.

Pablo Hernán Benedí’s Early Musical Life and Education

Born in Madrid, Pablo Hernán Benedí began his musical journey at an early age. He studied at the Padre Antonio Soler Conservatory in San Lorenzo de El Escorial under the guidance of Polina Kotliarskaya, where his exceptional talent quickly became evident. His early years laid the foundation for a musical career distinguished by curiosity, discipline and artistic ambition.

In 2009, Pablo Hernán Benedí moved to London to continue his studies at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama. There he studied with the renowned violinists David Takeno and András Keller, both of whom played an important role in shaping his artistic development. His studies were supported by scholarships from the Martin Musical Scholarship Fund (MMSF), Juventudes Musicales and La Caixa, reflecting the confidence that major institutions placed in his exceptional promise.

An especially important influence throughout his musical life has been the violinist Gordan Nikolić, with whom he has maintained a close artistic relationship since the age of fourteen. This long-term mentorship helped shape Benedí’s distinctive musical voice and his deep interest in chamber music and historically informed performance.

Pablo Hernán Benedí and the Chiaroscuro Quartet

A defining chapter of Pablo Hernán Benedí’s career began in 2010 when he joined the internationally renowned Chiaroscuro Quartet. Widely regarded as one of the leading period-instrument string quartets in the world, the ensemble has earned a reputation for its fresh, vibrant and historically informed interpretations of the classical and romantic repertoire.

With the Chiaroscuro Quartet, Pablo Hernán Benedí has performed in many of the world’s most prestigious venues, including Wigmore Hall in London, Carnegie Hall in New York, the Vienna Konzerthaus, Berlin’s Boulez Saal, Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw, Tokyo’s Oji Hall and Madrid’s Auditorio Nacional. The ensemble’s performances have been praised for their vitality, transparency and interpretative insight, attracting audiences and critics alike.

The quartet’s extensive discography has received widespread international acclaim. Among its many honours is the prestigious Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik, awarded in 2015 and widely regarded as Germany’s most important recording prize. Through its recordings and performances, the Chiaroscuro Quartet has helped redefine the possibilities of historically informed chamber music performance in the twenty-first century.

Pablo Hernán Benedí and Trio Isimsiz

Alongside his quartet activities, Pablo Hernán Benedí is a founding member of Trio Isimsiz, established in 2011. Since its formation, the trio has become one of Europe’s most highly regarded piano trios, earning international recognition for the depth, energy and sophistication of its performances.

The ensemble’s achievements include the Borletti-Buitoni Trust Fellowship Award, First Prize and Audience Prize at the Trondheim International Chamber Music Competition, and Second Prize at the Haydn Chamber Music Competition in Vienna. These distinctions established Trio Isimsiz as one of the leading young chamber ensembles of its generation.

The trio has performed extensively throughout Europe and has appeared at major venues and festivals including Wigmore Hall, Beethoven-Haus Bonn and many of Europe’s leading chamber music series. In addition to performing the core piano trio repertoire, the ensemble is committed to expanding the literature through collaborations with contemporary composers, including commissions from leading figures such as Francisco Coll.

Pablo Hernán Benedí as Soloist and Orchestral Leader

In addition to his chamber music activities, Pablo Hernán Benedí has developed a distinguished career as a soloist and orchestral leader. He has appeared as soloist with orchestras including the Philharmonia Orchestra, London Chamber Players and Concerto Budapest, performing repertoire that spans from the Baroque era to contemporary works.

His solo performances are admired for their technical brilliance, expressive depth and natural communicative power. Whether performing concertos, recital programmes or chamber music, Benedí combines intellectual insight with emotional immediacy, creating performances that engage both audiences and fellow musicians.

As an orchestral leader and guest concertmaster, he collaborates regularly with some of Europe’s finest ensembles. These include Arcangelo, Concerto Budapest, the Chamber Orchestra of Europe and the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra. His leadership is highly valued for its musical authority, collaborative spirit and stylistic versatility.

Pablo Hernán Benedí’s Instruments

An important aspect of Pablo Hernán Benedí’s artistic identity is his relationship with the exceptional instruments he performs on. He plays the celebrated “Alard” J.B. Vuillaume violin from 1851, an instrument admired for its remarkable richness of tone and projection.

With the Chiaroscuro Quartet he performs on a rare Andrea Amati violin dating from 1570, connecting his artistry directly to one of the earliest and most influential traditions of violin making. These historic instruments contribute significantly to the distinctive sound world that characterises his performances.

Pablo Hernán Benedí Today

Today, Pablo Hernán Benedí enjoys an international career that balances solo appearances, chamber music performances, recording projects and orchestral collaborations. His work with the Chiaroscuro Quartet and Trio Isimsiz has placed him among the most respected chamber musicians of his generation, while his activities as a soloist and leader continue to expand his artistic horizons.

Whether performing on the stages of Carnegie Hall, Wigmore Hall or the Concertgebouw, Pablo Hernán Benedí brings a rare combination of virtuosity, imagination and musical integrity to every performance. His career reflects a deep commitment to artistic excellence and a lifelong passion for exploring the richness and diversity of the violin repertoire. Through his performances, recordings and collaborations, he continues to inspire audiences around the world and to make a significant contribution to international musical life.

Kerstin Thiele, flute

Kerstin Thiele is a distinguished flutist renowned for her dynamic performances and commitment to both classical and contemporary repertoire. Since 1986, she has been a vital member of the Esbjerg Ensemble, Denmark’s oldest professional international chamber music group, contributing significantly to its artistic direction as a board-appointed member.

Thiele’s musical journey began serendipitously when she joined her local brass band to fill a need for a flutist, sparking a lifelong passion for the instrument. She pursued formal studies under solo flutist Toke Lund Christiansen at the Royal Danish Academy of Music and further refined her artistry with Professor André Jaunet in Zurich.

Beyond her ensemble work, Thiele is an esteemed educator at the Danish National Academy of Music, where she mentors the next generation of flutists. Her international career encompasses performances across Europe and collaborations with leading composers and musicians.

Thiele’s discography includes notable recordings such as “Roger Reynolds: Wind Concertos”, where she features prominently alongside the Esbjerg Ensemble, showcasing her versatility and dedication to contemporary music. This recording is available on platforms like Apple Music and ProStudioMasters.

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.

Joke Wijma, horn

Joke Wijma is a distinguished Dutch horn player renowned for her versatility and expressive artistry. Since 2005, she has been a core member of the Esbjerg Ensemble, Denmark’s premier chamber group celebrated for its dynamic interpretations of both classical and contemporary repertoire.

Wijma’s musical journey commenced at the Conservatory in Groningen, where she studied under Frank Brouns and Hans Dullarert. She further honed her craft at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater Hamburg, studying with the esteemed Dutch hornist Ab Koster. After graduating in 2004, she continued her studies with Koster while undertaking an internship with the Duisburger Philharmoniker, gaining valuable orchestral experience. 

Throughout her career, Wijma has performed extensively across Europe, North America, and Asia, showcasing her talent in a variety of musical settings. Her repertoire spans from traditional classical works to avant-garde contemporary pieces, reflecting her commitment to musical exploration and innovation.

A particularly memorable experience in her career was performing Peter Maxwell Davies’ “Sea Eagle” for solo horn outdoors, coinciding with a live bird of prey show. This unique performance exemplifies her adventurous spirit and dedication to creating immersive musical experiences.

In addition to her performance career, Wijma is actively involved in music education and outreach, conducting masterclasses and workshops to inspire the next generation of musicians. Her contributions to the Esbjerg Ensemble and the broader musical community continue to enrich the cultural landscape.

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.

Pau Codina, cello

Pau Codina

Pau Codina, is one of the leading Spanish cellists of his generation, internationally recognised for his work as a soloist, chamber musician and ensemble performer. Praised for the depth of his musical expression, refined technique and artistic versatility, Pau Codina has established an impressive international career that has taken him to many of Europe’s most prestigious concert halls and festivals. Equally at home performing concertos, chamber music and contemporary repertoire, he is admired for his ability to combine technical brilliance with profound musical sensitivity.

Pau Codina’s Early Musical Life and Education

Born in Barcelona in 1988, Pau Codina began playing the cello at the age of five under the guidance of Eulàlia Subirà in Manlleu. His exceptional talent quickly became evident, and his early studies laid the foundation for a career distinguished by artistic curiosity and musical excellence.

Seeking the highest level of musical training, Pau Codina continued his education at several of Europe’s most prestigious institutions. He studied at the renowned Yehudi Menuhin School in the United Kingdom before attending the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. He later continued his studies at the Chapelle Musicale Reine Elisabeth in Belgium, where he worked closely with the celebrated cellist Gary Hoffman. Throughout his studies he also benefited greatly from the guidance of Louise Hopkins, one of Britain’s most respected cello pedagogues.

These formative experiences exposed Codina to a rich international musical environment and helped shape the artistic voice that characterises his performances today. His playing combines the warmth and lyricism often associated with the great cello tradition with an intellectual rigour and stylistic flexibility that allows him to excel across a broad repertoire.

Pau Codina as Soloist

As a soloist, Pau Codina has appeared with numerous distinguished orchestras throughout Europe. His concerto performances have included collaborations with the Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra of Budapest, the Chamber Orchestra of Wallonie, the RTVE Orchestra in Madrid, the Barcelona Symphony Orchestra and the Andorra Chamber Orchestra.

His concerto repertoire spans from the classical period to the twentieth century and beyond, and his performances are admired for their expressive depth and natural communicative power. Audiences and critics alike have praised his ability to bring both technical command and emotional sincerity to the concert platform.

Among his notable recent performances is Robert Schumann’s Cello Concerto in A minor, Op. 129, performed with the Camera Musicae Orchestra under the direction of Salvador Mas. This performance further demonstrated his affinity for the romantic repertoire and his ability to balance lyricism with structural clarity.

Pau Codina and Chamber Music

Chamber music occupies a central place in Pau Codina’s artistic life. Throughout his career he has collaborated with many outstanding musicians and ensembles, bringing a distinctive combination of sensitivity, imagination and collaborative spirit to every project.

His performances have taken him to many of Europe’s most prestigious venues, including Wigmore Hall, Royal Festival Hall and Barbican Hall in London, the Concertgebouw Amsterdam, Flagey and Bozar in Brussels, the Pau Casals Auditorium, L’Auditori Barcelona and the Palau de la Música Catalana. In these venues he has appeared in a wide range of chamber music repertoire, from the classical masterpieces of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven to contemporary works by living composers.

His chamber music playing is particularly admired for its expressive warmth, refined ensemble awareness and ability to communicate directly with audiences. These qualities have made him a highly sought-after collaborator among musicians throughout Europe.

Pau Codina and Trio Fortuny

A particularly important aspect of Pau Codina’s career is his work with Trio Fortuny, one of Spain’s most celebrated chamber ensembles. Formed through the close friendship between Pau Codina, violinist Joel Bardolet and pianist Marc Heredia, the ensemble has become renowned for its imaginative programming, artistic depth and dynamic performances.

Trio Fortuny has appeared at major venues and festivals throughout Europe, including the Wissembourg International Music Festival, Portaferrada Festival, Temporada Ibercamera Girona, Centro Nacional de Difusión Musical, Bachcelona, L’Auditori Barcelona and the Palau de la Música Catalana. The ensemble’s performances are characterised by an exceptional level of communication and artistic unity.

The trio has recorded acclaimed video albums featuring works by Schubert, Brahms, Beethoven, Shostakovich and Mendelssohn. Their artistic development has been shaped by distinguished mentors including Ferenc Rados, Rainer Schmidt, Claudio Martínez Mehner, Gary Hoffman, Anton Kernjak and Jonathan Brown.

A significant milestone in the ensemble’s career came with the award of an artistic residency at the Palau de la Música Catalana beginning in the 2023–2024 season, further confirming Trio Fortuny’s position among Europe’s leading chamber music ensembles.

Pau Codina and the Esbjerg Ensemble

Alongside his solo and chamber music activities, Pau Codina is a member of the internationally acclaimed Esbjerg Ensemble, Denmark’s oldest professional international chamber music ensemble. The ensemble is renowned for its innovative programming, commitment to contemporary music and collaborations with leading composers and performers.

As a member of the Esbjerg Ensemble, Codina regularly performs a diverse repertoire that spans several centuries of musical history, contributing to one of Scandinavia’s most important cultural institutions. His work with the ensemble reflects his commitment to artistic exploration and collaborative music-making at the highest level.

He is also a member of the Oculi Ensemble, further demonstrating the breadth of his chamber music activities and his dedication to innovative artistic projects.

Pau Codina’s Recordings, Awards and Legacy

Pau Codina’s discography reflects both his versatility and artistic ambition. Among his most notable recordings is Saint-Saëns’ Suite Op. 16 for cello and orchestra with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra of Liège under the direction of Christian Arming, released on the Fuga Libera label.

His achievements have been recognised through numerous awards and distinctions. He is the recipient of the MBF’s Guilhermina Suggia Award and the Kronberg Cello Festival Schlosskonzert Prize. He has also received Third Prize and the Critics’ Award at the Primer Palau Competition in Barcelona and won First Prize at the Concurso Permanente of Juventudes Musicales de España.

Today, Pau Codina enjoys a flourishing international career that balances solo appearances, chamber music performances, recordings and educational activities. Whether appearing as a concerto soloist, performing with Trio Fortuny, collaborating with the Esbjerg Ensemble or recording major works of the cello repertoire, Pau Codina continues to inspire audiences through performances distinguished by intelligence, integrity and profound musical expression. His dedication to artistic excellence and his passion for communication through music have established him as one of the most compelling cellists of his generation.

Joel Bardolet, violin

Joel Bardolet, is one of Spain’s most distinctive violinists, acclaimed for his imaginative programming, expressive artistry and commitment to chamber music. As a soloist, chamber musician and artistic collaborator, he has built an international reputation for performances that combine intellectual curiosity with emotional depth. His work spans the great classical repertoire, contemporary music and innovative interdisciplinary projects, establishing him as one of the most versatile musicians of his generation.

Joel Bardolet’s Early Musical Life and Education

Born in Vigo, Spain, Joel Bardolet developed a passion for music from an early age and quickly distinguished himself through his exceptional talent and musical sensitivity. He pursued advanced studies in Catalonia, Germany and Switzerland, where he worked with leading violin pedagogues and absorbed a wide range of musical influences. This international education provided him with a broad artistic perspective and a deep understanding of diverse musical traditions.

Throughout his studies, Bardolet cultivated an approach to music-making that emphasises communication, exploration and artistic integrity. These values continue to shape his work today, both as a performer and collaborator.

Joel Bardolet as Soloist

Joel Bardolet has appeared as soloist with numerous distinguished orchestras across Europe. His concerto appearances include collaborations with the Vienna Chamber Orchestra, Orchestre de Chambre de Lausanne, Scottish Chamber Orchestra and Basel Chamber Orchestra, among others. His interpretations of repertoire ranging from Bach and Mozart to Beethoven and contemporary composers have been praised for their clarity, elegance and expressive power.

As a soloist, Bardolet is known for his ability to reveal the architectural structure of a work while maintaining a strong sense of spontaneity and emotional immediacy. His performances combine technical mastery with a deep commitment to storytelling through music.

Joel Bardolet and Chamber Music

Chamber music lies at the heart of Joel Bardolet’s artistic identity. He is highly sought after as a chamber musician and has collaborated with leading performers throughout Europe. His performances are distinguished by exceptional listening skills, refined ensemble playing and a deep understanding of musical dialogue.

A hallmark of his artistry is his ability to create thoughtful and engaging programmes that connect different musical traditions and periods. His collaborations frequently explore the relationships between rhythm, phrasing and colour, resulting in performances that are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally compelling.

Joel Bardolet and Trio Fortuny

An important part of Joel Bardolet’s career is his work as a founding member of Trio Fortuny, alongside cellist Pau Codina and pianist Marc Heredia. Formed through a shared artistic vision and long-standing friendship, the ensemble has become one of Spain’s leading chamber groups.

Trio Fortuny has performed extensively throughout Europe, appearing at major festivals and venues including the Palau de la Música Catalana, L’Auditori Barcelona, Centro Nacional de Difusión Musical, Temporada Ibercamera Girona, Portaferrada Festival and the Wissembourg International Music Festival. The trio is recognised for its imaginative programming and performances that combine technical excellence with profound musical insight.

The ensemble’s artistic development has been shaped by distinguished mentors including Ferenc Rados, Rainer Schmidt, Claudio Martínez Mehner, Gary Hoffman, Anton Kernjak and Jonathan Brown. Their recordings and concert projects have featured works by Schubert, Brahms, Beethoven, Mendelssohn and Shostakovich, while also championing contemporary music and new commissions.

A significant milestone in the trio’s career came with the award of an artistic residency at the Palau de la Música Catalana beginning in the 2023–2024 season, confirming its position among Europe’s leading chamber music ensembles.

Joel Bardolet and Contemporary Music

Alongside his work with the classical repertoire, Joel Bardolet is a passionate advocate for contemporary music. He regularly collaborates with living composers and has premiered numerous new works. His performances of contemporary repertoire demonstrate the same commitment, precision and expressive intensity that characterise his interpretations of the great classics.

Through these projects he continues to contribute to the ongoing development of the violin repertoire while encouraging audiences to engage with new musical voices.

Joel Bardolet as Teacher and Mentor

Education forms an important part of Joel Bardolet’s artistic life. He regularly gives masterclasses and workshops throughout Europe, sharing his experience with younger generations of musicians. His teaching encourages students to combine technical discipline with creativity, curiosity and personal expression.

Bardolet believes that music education should nurture individuality while fostering a deeper understanding of the artistic and cultural contexts that shape musical performance.

Joel Bardolet Today

Today, Joel Bardolet enjoys a varied international career as a soloist, chamber musician, educator and artistic innovator. Whether performing concertos, exploring chamber music masterpieces or collaborating on contemporary projects, he brings a distinctive voice and artistic vision to every performance.

His commitment to musical exploration, collaboration and communication continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians alike. Through his work as a performer, teacher and advocate for chamber music, Joel Bardolet has established himself as one of the most compelling violinists of his generation.