Performers

Valdemar Wenzel Most – Rising Danish Piano Star

At just 19 years old, Valdemar Wenzel Most is rapidly ascending towards the stars of the international piano scene. With an impressive list of awards and accolades to his name, he was named P2 Talent of the Year 2025 on 6 April.

In September 2025, Valdemar will appear as soloist with Danmarks Underholdningsorkester as part of their prestigious Haydn Festival. On this occasion, he will also give the world premiere of a brand-new piece, composed especially for the recipient of the P2 Talent Award.

Born into a musical family, Valdemar began his journey with both piano and cello, and also sang as a boy soprano in the Copenhagen Royal Chapel Choir. He performed as one of the three boys in Mozart’s The Magic Flute at the Royal Danish Opera, and studied piano with Bella Zapolski before continuing his training with Kirill Gerstein at the Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler Berlin, where he is currently part of Gerstein’s class.

In March 2024, Valdemar performed Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21 with the Odense Symphony Orchestra conducted by Simon Gaudenz. At the Aarhus International Piano Competition 2023, he was awarded 2nd Prize and the Carl Nielsen Prize, performing the first movement of Rachmaninov’s Third Piano Concerto with the Aarhus Symphony Orchestra and conductor Pierre Bleuse.

He has also performed Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Concerto (first movement) with the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra (conductor Delyana Lazarova), the South Denmark Philharmonic (Alessandro Bonato), and Copenhagen Phil (Christian Øland).

Valdemar received the Talent Prize at the Copenhagen Summer Festival, where he gave a live televised recital on Danish Broadcasting Corporation (DR). The programme included solo works and Mendelssohn’s Piano Trio in D minor, performed with Jonathan Swensen and Selma Teilmann.

He received the Great Grant from the Jacob Gade Foundation in 2023 and was a participant at IMS Prussia Cove, where he had the opportunity to work with Kirill Gerstein—an experience that strongly influenced his artistic path.

Valdemar won 1st Prize at the Steinway Festival 2022 and was selected as Denmark’s representative at the International Steinway Festival in Hamburg, performing at the Laeiszhalle in September 2023.

At the Nordic Piano Competition 2022, he received 2nd Prize and special awards for Best Nordic Pianist, Best Romantic Interpretation, and Best Classical Interpretation. He also received the Talent Prize and Gold Medal at the Berlingske Classical Music Competition 2019, 2nd Prize at the Nordic Junior Piano Competition, and the Grand Prix at the Concertino Malmö International Music Festival.

A recipient of a three-year Talent Grant from the Jacob Gade Foundation in 2018, Valdemar is now an active member of the Jacob Gade Talent Programme, where he regularly performs recitals and chamber music alongside both young musicians and seasoned professionals.

Valdemar won Gold Medal at The Young Chamber Music Competition in Denmark 2022 with the Zapolski Piano Quintet, which also performed at the Royal Danish Theatre to celebrate the ballet school’s 250th anniversary.

As a chamber musician, he has collaborated with renowned artists including Torleif Thedéen, Andreas Brantelid, Ludvig Gudim, Jonathan Swensen, and Hrachya Avanesyan.

Jonas Egholm (b. 1998) is one of Denmark’s most remarkable young classical guitarists. Growing up in Børkop near Vejle, he has quickly established himself on the international stage, winning multiple prizes, including the 1st Prize at the prestigious International Guitar Festival José Tomás Villa de Petrer in Spain.

In 2023, Jonas was named P2 Talent of the Year by the Danish Broadcasting Corporation (DR P2), a distinction that recognizes not only his exceptional technical mastery and musicality but also his passion for new music and artistic innovation. Throughout 2023, he has performed widely, with several of his concerts broadcast live on DR P2. He is also scheduled to premiere a new work composed for him by Sandra Boss, developed in collaboration with the Danish Composers’ Society and the Esbjerg Ensemble.

Jonas is currently completing his studies in the Soloist Class at The Royal Danish Academy of Music in Copenhagen under Jesper Sivebæk and will make his official debut in September 2023. His first solo album, featuring music by Sergio Assad, Joaquín Rodrigo, and others, was released in 2022 and selected as Album of the Week by DR P2.

Known for his artistic curiosity, discipline, and commitment to both traditional and contemporary repertoire, Jonas is actively involved in projects that bring newly composed music to younger audiences, including his recordings for Educate·S, a Danish initiative promoting contemporary music for children and youth.

With his dynamic presence and deep musical insight, Jonas Egholm is poised to become a leading figure in the international guitar scene.

ARS NOVA Copenhagen is a Danish-based, international vocal ensemble of 12 members specializing in renaissance polyphonic choral music and new vocal music, which is performed with precision and verve, and with a sound that attracts attention all over the world.

The ensemble has long since established itself as one of the world’s finest vocal ensembles and has toured in more than 40 countries on five continents. With concerts in Copenhagen and the rest of Denmark and several annual tours worldwide, the group is today more in demand th

an ever. Upcoming tours include Scotland, Belgium Sweden, Germany and Spain.

Over the years, Ars Nova has had close collaborations with a large number of both international and Danish composers, including Pelle Gudmundsens-Holmgreen, Per Nørgård and Avo Pärt. Most recently, the ensemble premiered works by Bent Sørensen, Signe Lykke, Caroline Shaw and Galina Grigorjeva.

Ars Nova has recorded a number of award-winning albums; including a Grammy for The Little Match Girl Passion with music by David Lang (with Theatre of Voices at Harmonia Mundi). The ensemble’s latest releases are “…and…” (Naxos) featuring  works by Arvo Pärt, Julia Wolfe and Caroline Shaw as well as Italian medieval songs from Laudario di Cortona, which was nominated as release of the year at the P2 Prize 2022, and Crossing Borders (Dacapo) with music by Carl Nielsen, Niels W. Gade, Vagn Holmboe, Wilhelm Stenhammer and Line Tjørnhøj. Both releases have received top reviews in the press. In March 2025 the group released a recording of Caroline Shaw’s How to fold the wind(Cantaloupe) commissioned by Ars Nova in 2020.

Other releases include Creator Spiritus with music by Arvo Pärt and The Christmas Story (Harmonia Mundi), Gallos Y Huesos | Notker with music by the Argentinian composer Pablo Ortiz (Orchid Classics) and The Golden Age of Danish Partsongs (Dacapo) with music by prominent Danish vocal composers from the past 200 years. 

Ars Nova was founded in 1979 and until 1995 was led by the Danish conductor and composer Bo Holten, whose pioneering ideas about a repertoire encompassing both early and new music helped establishing the ensemble’s position both in Denmark and internationally.

Tamás Vetö, who succeeded Holten in 1995, conducted a.o.. a long series of highly praised concert performances and recordings of Danish contemporary music.

From the beginning of this century until 2023, the ensemble was led by Paul Hillier, who with his clear artistic vision  took Ars Nova Copenhagen to the high level characterizing the group’s work today. In 2023 Paul Hillier was appointed honorary conductor of Ars Nova Copenhagen.

In 2024 Swedish/French Sofi Jeannin took over as the ensemble’s new chief conductor. JIn addition to holding the positions as chief conductor of the BBC Singers and Maitrise de Radio France, Jeannin regularly appears as guest conductor of a large number of leading European choirs and vocal ensembles. Ars Nova has thus once again succeeded in attracting an international conductor from the top shelf.

Ars Nova is part of Tenso – The European network for professional chamber choirs.

 

German-British cellist Philip Skye Graham is a sought-after chamber musician and interpreter ofcontemporary music. His diverse career encompasses working with various ensembles and musical styles, solo projects, teaching activities, and collaborations with contemporary composers. Early competition successes, numerous international scholarships, and studies with renowned professors such as Clemens Hagen (Mozarteum University Salzburg), Alexander Hülshoff (Folkwang University of the Arts), and Nicolas Altstaedt (Hanns Eisler School of Music Berlin), alongside further musical guidance from eminent figures including Günter Pichler (Alban Berg Quartet), Lucas Fels (Arditti Quartet), Heinrich Schiff, and Steven Isserlis, quickly led to an intense concert schedule. In 2015, he joined the Berlin-based Notos Piano Quartet. From 2015 to 2024, Graham performed with the Notos Quartet on some of the world’s most prestigious stages across Europe, Japan, China, Australia, and North America. The quartet’s achievements include three critically acclaimed albums released by Sony Classical, numerous live recordings, radio and television features, and six first prizes at international competitions. Their excellence was further recognized with the Würth Prize of Jeunesses Musicales Germany. Since leaving the quartet in 2024 to explore new artistic directions, Graham has pursued many different projects that span a wide range, including performances at the Kammermusikfest Lockenhaus, recordings of solo works by H.W. Henze and B.A. Zimmermann, collaborations with artists such as Christian Tetzlaff and Heinz Holliger as well as guest appearances with the Esbjerg Ensemble and as principal cellist with the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Munich Philharmonic. A key element of Graham’s career is collaboration with contemporary composers. Over the years, many works have been written for him and the Notos Quartet, including by distinguished composers such as Beat Furrer, Birke Bertelsmeier, David P. Graham, Jesús Torres, Bernhard Gander, Bryce Dessner, Hakan Ulus, and Elena Mendoza. Beyond his performance career, Philip Graham is deeply committed to supporting young artists. In 2019 he co-founded the now annual Notos Chamber Music Academy in collaboration with Jeunesses Musicales Germany. He has also conducted workshops with his father, British composer David P. Graham, on teaching modern compositional techniques and interpreting new works for children and young people. Since the winter semester of 2024/25, Graham has been an adjunct faculty member at the Hanns Eisler School of Music in Berlin. Thanks to the generous support of the Merito String Instruments Trust, Philip Graham performs on a Giovanni Battista Grancino cello from 1700. As a Pirastro Artist, he exclusively uses strings crafted by the renowned string manufacturer Pirastro GmbH.

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.  

Michel Camille, viola

Michel Camille, born in London to Finnish and British parents, began his musical journey at the age of 11 with a full scholarship to Wells Cathedral School, one of the UK’s leading specialist music schools. There, he gained early experience as both a soloist and chamber musician, performing across Europe, North America, and Asia. During this formative period, he had the opportunity to work with legendary artists such as Yehudi Menuhin, Yfrah Neamen, Norman del Mar, and Igor Ozim.

Since 1995, Michel Camille has been the violist of the Esbjerg Ensemble, Denmark’s premier chamber group, known for its dynamic interpretations of both classical and contemporary repertoire. He served as the ensemble’s Artistic Director from 1997 to 2001. In 1999, he founded the Esbjerg International Chamber Music Festival, bringing together world-class composers and performers, and establishing it as a vibrant part of Denmark’s cultural landscape.

Camille studied with Professor David Takeno at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, earning the prestigious “Premier Prix.” He was also awarded the “Concerto Prize” at the Banff Centre for the Arts in Canada. Early in his career, he held principal viola positions with ensembles such as the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields and the BBC Symphony Orchestra.

A passionate chamber musician, Michel Camille has toured extensively with the Esbjerg Ensemble and guest-performed with numerous international groups. His work as a curator and artistic director is known for pushing boundaries—blending classical repertoire with contemporary works, interdisciplinary collaborations, and innovative programming that resonates with today’s audiences.

Michel Camille’s performances have been widely broadcast on Danish and international radio, including DR P2, and he has recorded numerous chamber works for CD with the Esbjerg Ensemble and other collaborators. His discography spans music from Schubert and Brahms to living composers, reflecting his deep commitment to both tradition and innovation. These recordings are praised for their clarity, warmth, and communicative energy, and continue to reach audiences well beyond the concert hall.

Beyond the concert hall, Camille shares his musical projects and performances through his growing YouTube presence, connecting with a wider audience and offering insights into his artistic journey. His YouTube channel, Michel Camille – YouTube, has garnered over 9,000 subscribers and features a diverse collection of chamber music performances. Notably, his collaboration on Schubert’s “Trout Quintet” has attracted significant attention, reflecting his ability to engage audiences through digital platforms.

He is also dedicated to mentoring young musicians through masterclasses and educational outreach, inspiring the next generation of chamber artists.

Tim Crawford, violin

Tim Crawford is an accomplished British violinist, known for his expertise as both a soloist and chamber musician. Currently studying at the Basel Musik Akademie under Rainer Schmidt, Tim Crawford has built a distinguished career performing across the UK and Europe. His deep connection to music began early, born to two violinist parents, and he started his formal education at the Royal Academy of Music at the age of four. During his time there, he won numerous awards and accolades, cementing his reputation as a prodigious talent. Tim Crawford continued his studies at the Guildhall School of Music in London, where he completed his undergraduate degree under Alexander Janiczek. He was awarded a Concert Recital Diploma, the Ivan Sutton Chamber Prize, and the Lord Mayor’s Prize for the highest mark across the music department. His exceptional performance led to an invitation to return as a Chamber Fellow. Tim Crawford’s chamber music career is marked by significant collaborations and achievements. He is a founding member of the Teyber Trio, alongside violist Timothy Ridout and cellist Tim Posner, a partnership that has flourished since they were 15. From 2017 to 2020, he played with the Barbican Quartet, during which they won first prize and the Classical Era Prize at the Joseph Joachim International Chamber Music Competition. Recently, he co-founded the Valo Quartet with Maria Włoszczowska, Lilli Maijala, and Amy Norrington, continuing his journey in chamber music with long-time playing partners. His association with the Esbjerg Ensemble is another highlight of his career, where he regularly performs, adding to his extensive experience in ensemble playing. Tim Crawford has also been a frequent participant in the IMS Prussia Cove Masterclasses, studying with Andras Keller and Steven Isserlis. In 2019, he was invited on the IMS Open Chamber Music Tour across the UK, showcasing his talents in prestigious venues including the Wigmore Hall in London. Tim Crawford’s versatility extends to his leadership roles; he leads Collegium, a string group founded by Lawrence Power, and regularly performs with Arcangelo, a leading ensemble directed by Jonathan Cohen. His performances with these groups are noted for their historical and modern instrument excellence. Throughout his career, Tim Crawford has been invited to many of Europe’s finest chamber music festivals. His performances have paired him with renowned artists such as Steven Isserlis, Lawrence Power, Alexi Kenney, Philippe Graffin, Amy Norrington, Alasdair Beatson, Bengt Forsberg, Timothy Ridout, and Paolo Giacometti. He is a regular at festivals like Musikdorf Ernen, IMS Prussia Cove, Lewes Chamber Festival, and Wye Valley Chamber Festival. This year, he looks forward to debuting at the West Wycombe Chamber Festival and Festival Resonances. Tim Crawford’s discography includes recordings made with the Celan Quartet, a group he was part of from 2011 to 2014. The quartet, formed with the support of MusicWorks Chamber Courses and violist James Boyd, released a recording of Berg’s Quartet Op.3, receiving critical acclaim. Although the Celan Quartet is no longer active, Tim Crawford continues to collaborate with its members, maintaining the musical bonds they formed. His commitment to music education and outreach is evident in his regular participation in masterclasses and workshops. Tim Crawford is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of musicians, emphasizing the importance of both technical skill and expressive performance. Tim Crawford plays on a 1770 Ferdinand Gagliano violin, an instrument that complements his rich, expressive sound. His ongoing studies, performances, and recordings continue to enrich the classical music world, making him one of the most sought-after violinists of his generation. Whether on stage, in a classroom, or in a recording studio, Tim Crawford brings a deep passion and dedication to his craft, ensuring his lasting impact on the world of classical music.

Dmitry Smirnov is widely regarded as one of the exceptional personalities of the young generation of violinists. The ARD prizewinner performs as a soloist with leading orchestras such as the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra or the Festival Strings Lucerne and in concert halls from Carnegie Hall in New York to Nikkei Hall in Tokyo. As an ‘enfant terrible’, he inspires audiences with his bold artistic vision and outstanding virtuosity, including in historically informed interpretations of traditional repertoire. As a sought-after chamber musician, Dmitry Smirnov regularly performs with partners such as Sol Gabetta and Ilya Gringolts, and also acts as concertmaster and soloist for Giovanni Antonini’s ‘Haydn Project 2032’. In the coming season, Dmitry Smirnov will make his debut with orchestras such as the Oslo Philharmonic and the Stuttgart Philharmonic and will act as concertmaster for Cappella Gabetta’s European tour. In March 2026, at the Tchaikovsky Concert Hall in Moscow, he will present the world premiere of the violin concerto by the illustrious Russian composer Gavriil Popov, which was thought to have been lost and which he completed after months of archival and transcription work. Recording projects with the lutenist and Harnoncourt student Luca Pianca with works by Paganini as well as the collaboration with Ilya Gringolts for Vivaldi’s double concertos will enrich his discography to date, which already contains solo works from J. S. Bach to Bartók as well as various romantic violin concertos (on gut strings). Dmitry Smirnov has won prizes at numerous international competitions, including first prizes at the Moscow Oistrakh Competition (2006), the Tibor Varga Competition (2015) and the Concours d’Interprétation Musicale de Lausanne (2017), second prizes at the International Yehudi Menuhin Competition (2008) and the ARD Music Competition (2021), a controversial elimination in the semi-finals of the Queen Elisabeth Competition (2024) and three prizes at the Concours international Long-Thibaud-Crespin in 2018, including the Critics’ Prize for the best interpretation of contemporary music. He is the winner of numerous scholarships and his work is supported by generous donors such as the Pierino Ambrosoli Foundation. Dmitry Smirnov regularly performs as a soloist and chamber musician at renowned festivals, including the Salzburg Festival, Lucerne Festival, Gstaad Menuhin Festival, LuganoMusica, Heidelberger Frühling, Rheingau Music Festival, Davos Festival, Grafenegg Festival, Stresa Festival, Solsberg Festival, Festival delle Muse Salentine and Inverno Musicale (Brazil). As a soloist, he has worked with conductors such as Giovanni Antonini, Heinz Holliger, Philippe Herreweghe, Vladimir Spivakov, Gilbert Varga, Stanislav Kochanovsky, Philipp Chizhevsky, Delyana Lazarova and Aurel Dawidiuk and has performed with orchestras such as the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Il Giardino Armonico, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Novaya Rossiya State Symphony Orchestra, Moscow Virtuosi, Festival Strings Lucerne, Orchestre de Chambre de Lausanne, Kammerorchester Basel, Sinfonieorchester Basel, Sinfonieorchester St. Gallen, Argovia Philharmonic, Orchestra di Padova e del Veneto and the Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie. Dmitry Smirnov was born into a musical family in St. Petersburg, where he received his first violin lessons at the age of four and continued his education at the Rimsky-Korsakov Conservatory. Subsequent studies took him to the Haute École de Musique Lausanne in the class of Pavel Vernikov followed by studies with Rainer Schmidt at the Basel Music Academy. In the context of baroque music, Dmitry also performs as a violist, cellist and harpsichordist. His main instrument is a violin by Philipp Bonhoeffer (2018).

Known for his intellectual curiosity and fearless approach to repertoire, Dmitry Smirnov is especially praised for the intensity and individuality of his interpretations. Whether performing the rich textures of Romantic concertos or the clean lines of Baroque sonatas on period instruments, he combines analytical depth with instinctive musical storytelling. He is committed to bringing lesser-known works to light, often researching forgotten scores and reintroducing them with fresh insight. Alongside his performance schedule, he also teaches masterclasses and has mentored young string players at festivals and academies across Europe. His dedication to education and historical performance practice makes him a vital voice in shaping the future of classical music.

Praised by critics as “a musician whose finesse, intelligence and sensitivity blend harmoniously” (Diapason) and who creates moments of “pure beauty” (Bachtrack), Dominic Chamot is emerging as “one of the new musical stars of the international piano scene” (Fono Forum).

Born in Cologne in 1995, he is the winner of the Viotti, Ferrol and CIPCE competitions, as well as six other competitions. He has also won 26 other prizes and awards at competitions such as Maria-Canals, Hilton Head and many more.

His career began at a young age when, at the age of 12, he was admitted to the class of Prof. Sheila Arnold at the Pre-College-Cologne of the HfMT Cologne, which provided him with crucial musical impulses. Soon after, he received international awards in Berlin, Zwickau, Enschede, Weimar, Cologne, etc., as well as performances in prestigious venues such as the Berlin and Cologne Philharmonie, the Wiener Musikverein, Palau de la Musica Catalana Barcelona, and many others.

Chamot then deepened his studies with Claudio Martinez-Mehner in Basel. He completed his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Specialised Performance (Soloist) with top grades and honors, and at the end of his pedagogy studies with Zoltan Fejervari, he also won the award for the best recital of the year at the Basel Music Academy. Since 2024 he receives lessons from Rena Shereshevskaya as part of the “Elite”-programme at the Ecole Normale de Musique in Paris.

Meanwhile, his reputation as a versatile musician developed, leading to performances worldwide. He played concerts in 17 countries on 4 continents, recently performed multiple times at the Berlin Philharmonie, won some of Switzerland’s most exclusive scholarships during his studies, and was invited by the WDR Symphony Orchestra as a soloist for a concert at the Cologne Philharmonie. After these successes, further invitations followed from orchestras throughout Germany, as well as the Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano, ORF Symphony Orchestra Vienna, Orquesta Sinfonica de Galicia, and many more. He has collaborated with conductors such as Jukka-Pekka Saraste, Cornelius Meister, Joseph Bastian, and many others. In New York, he captivated the audience with his performance at the Steinway Hall as part of the “Classical Bridge Festival.”

In 2025, highlights include recitals at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris, at the Tokyo International Forum and at the Piano Festival La Roque-d’Anthéron.

He is also in high demand as a chamber musician: he is repeatedly invited to festivals (Gstaad, Davos, Schwetzingen Mozart Festival, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Festival), regularly performs with musicians from Switzerland’s top orchestras (Tonhalle Zurich, Lucerne Symphony Orchestra, Basel Symphony Orchestra, among others), and released a duo CD with Sergio Pires, principal clarinetist of the London Symphony Orchestra. Other chamber music partners included Kian Soltani, Sirena Huang and many more.

Dominic Chamot has received scholarships from the Jürgen Ponto Stiftung, Deutschen Stiftung Musikleben, Migros-Kulturprozent, Lieven Piano Foundation, Jmanuel und Evamaria Schenk Stiftung, August-Pickhardt Stiftung, Stiftung für junge Musiktalente Meggen, and the Kiefer Hablitzel Stiftung.

Known for his deep interpretive insight and refined touch, Chamot is praised not only for his technical command but also for his ability to craft poetic, emotionally resonant performances. Whether performing solo, with orchestra, or in chamber settings, he brings clarity, imagination, and a strong sense of musical narrative to every piece he interprets.

In addition to his live performances, Chamot is actively involved in recording projects. A forthcoming solo album featuring works by Schumann, Ravel, and contemporary Swiss composers is currently in preparation, showcasing his range and interest in contrasting musical languages. His recordings have already been broadcast on major radio stations across Europe, including SWR, WDR, and Radio SRF 2 Kultur, further expanding his reach and recognition.

As he continues to evolve artistically, Chamot is committed to exploring new repertoire, championing lesser-known composers, and engaging with contemporary music. With an ever-growing international presence, he represents a new generation of pianists who blend tradition with curiosity, and brilliance with depth.

Joel Bardolet, violin

Joel Bardolet, a distinguished violinist hailing from the picturesque town of Vigo, has carved out a significant niche in the world of classical music. Known for his innovative interpretations and exceptional technique, Joel Bardolet has become a prominent figure in Central European orchestras and chamber music ensembles. His performances are noted for their emotional depth and meticulous attention to detail, making him a sought-after concertmaster and soloist.

Joel Bardolet’s journey in music began at an early age, nurtured by a passion for the violin that would see him travel across Europe for his education and career. He holds a master’s degree from esteemed institutions in Catalonia, Germany, and Switzerland, where he studied under renowned mentors. This diverse educational background has given him a profound understanding of various musical traditions and styles, which he skillfully incorporates into his performances. A hallmark of Joel Bardolet’s artistry is his ability to craft thoughtful and engaging musical programs. He collaborates closely with fellow musicians to explore rhythmic precision, phrasing, and the cohesion of sound. His interpretive style is characterised by its intentionality and porosity, allowing him to connect deeply with the music and his audience. Joel Bardolet’s performances are not just displays of technical prowess but are deeply immersive experiences that invite listeners into a shared musical journey. Throughout his career, Joel Bardolet has performed with numerous prestigious orchestras and chamber ensembles. He has taken the stage as a soloist with the Vienna Chamber Orchestra, the Orchestre de Chambre de Lausanne, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and the Basel Chamber Orchestra, among others. His interpretations of classical repertoire, particularly works by Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms, have been lauded for their clarity, emotion, and technical excellence. In addition to his work with established repertoire, Joel Bardolet is an avid supporter of contemporary music. He regularly collaborates with modern composers and has premiered several new works, showcasing his versatility and commitment to expanding the violin’s repertoire. His performances of contemporary music are marked by the same rigor and passion that define his interpretations of classical pieces. Beyond the concert stage, Joel Bardolet is deeply committed to musical education. He frequently conducts masterclasses and workshops, where he shares his extensive knowledge and passion for the violin with aspiring musicians. His teaching philosophy encourages students to engage deeply with their music, fostering a sense of personal expression and creativity. Joel Bardolet’s dedication to education ensures that his influence extends beyond his own performances, shaping the next generation of violinists. One of the highlights of Joel Bardolet’s career is his involvement with the Klassisk Sommer Festival in Denmark. His performances at the festival are highly anticipated events, known for their emotional intensity and technical brilliance. Bardolet’s presence at the festival not only enriches the event but also brings his exceptional talent to a broader audience. Joel Bardolet is also a founding member of the Fortuny Trio, alongside cellist Pau Codina and pianist Marc Heredia. The trio is celebrated for its dynamic and cohesive performances, blending individual artistry with a unified ensemble sound. Together, they have performed extensively across Europe, earning acclaim for their interpretations of both classical and contemporary works. The Fortuny Trio is dedicated to exploring a wide range of repertoire, from the great classical trios to new compositions, thus contributing to the evolution of chamber music. In addition to his live performances, Joel Bardolet has an impressive discography that showcases his versatility as a violinist. His recordings include works by both classical and contemporary composers, reflecting his wide-ranging musical interests and his ability to bring fresh perspectives to familiar pieces. Joel Bardolet’s contributions to the world of classical music are significant and far-reaching. His innovative approach to performance, combined with his dedication to education and his support for contemporary music, make him a unique and influential figure in the field. As he continues to perform and teach, Bardolet’s impact on the world of music is sure to grow, inspiring audiences and musicians alike with his extraordinary talent and passion for the violin. Joel Bardolet’s commitment to both solo and ensemble performance, along with his advocacy for contemporary music and dedication to teaching, ensures that he remains at the forefront of the classical music scene. His work with the Fortuny Trio further exemplifies his collaborative spirit and his ability to bring out the best in his fellow musicians. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Joel Bardolet is poised to make even greater contributions to the rich tapestry of classical music, leaving an indelible mark on audiences and musicians around the world.

Elisa Siber is an Austrian-born cellist known for her expressive and versatile musicianship. She performs both as a soloist and chamber musician, engaging with a wide range of musical

styles—from Baroque to contemporary works. Siber is a member of the Balthasar Neumann Orchestra, an ensemble renowned for its historically informed performances.  She also collaborates with the string quartet NoGo, which explores Nordic folk traditions through innovative arrangements. 

In addition to her performance career, Siber is dedicated to music education. She teaches cello at the Regionale Musikschule Sissach in Switzerland, where she shares her passion for music with students of all ages. 

Siber has participated in interdisciplinary projects, such as the “Islands” concert series in collaboration with artist Zvi Szir, blending live music with visual art.  Her performances have been featured in various concerts, including a rendition of Dvořák’s Cello Concerto in B minor with the Orchestra of the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz.

Canadian-American violinist Maia Cabeza enjoys a multi-faceted performing career as a soloist, chamber musician and orchestral leader. She has been successful in several international competitions, and her major awards include 1st prize at the 2013 Leopold Mozart Violin Competition in Augsburg and 2nd prize (Bach-prize) of the 2018 Johann Sebastian Bach Competition in Leipzig. As a soloist, she has performed with several notable orchestras including, among others, the Augsburg Philharmonic, St. Petersburg State Symphony Orchestra, Vienna Chamber Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra, Munich Radio Orchestra, Deutsche Staatsphilharmonie Rheinland-Pfalz, Edmonton Symphony and Detroit Symphony. Her solo and chamber music performances have brought her to some of the world’s most important halls, including Carnegie Hall, Wigmore Hall, Teatro Colón and Berlin Philharmonie. In 2016, she released a positively acclaimed debut CD on Oehms Classics which features contrasting solo and chamber works by Mozart and Schnittke. Maia Cabeza is extremely passionate and dedicated to chamber music, and in November 2024 joined the UK-based Doric Quartet as First Violin. She has performed at many prestigious festivals such as Marlboro Music Festival, Lockenhaus, Rheingau, Kronberg “Chamber Music Connects the World”, Ravinia, Saronic Music Festival, Krzyżowa Music, Southwell, Verbier Festival Academy, and Prussia Cove Open Chamber Music, taking part in the tour group of 2015. In these festivals and others, she has had the opportunity to collaborate with distinguished musicians such as Vilde Frang, Nobuko Imai, Steven Isserlis, Kim Kashkashian, Christian Tetzlaff, Dénes Várjon and various members of the Cleveland, Guarneri, and Juilliard String Quartets. In addition to her solo and chamber music activities, Maia performs regularly with top European orchestras. Maia Cabeza is co-leader of Aurora Orchestra, and is also a member of Chamber Orchestra of Europe and Principal Second of Kammerakademie Potsdam. She has been invited to guest lead orchestras such as Czech Philharmonic, Haydn Philharmonie and Orchestra Leonore, among others. Maia is also interested in historically informed performance practice and performs regularly in chamber ensembles on baroque and classical violin. Maia Cabeza was born in Japan in 1992 and is of Argentinean heritage. She received her Bachelor’s Degree at the Curtis Institute of Music (Philadelphia, USA) studying with Ida Kavafian and Joseph Silverstein, and was a member of the Berlin Philharmonic Karajan Orchestra Academy between 2012-2014. She continued her studies and received her masters degree in Berlin at the Hanns Eisler Musikhochschule in the class of Antje Weithaas. Maia performs on a Carlo Ferdinando Landolfi violin (circa. 1750) on loan by the Canada Council for the Arts Musical Instrument Bank.

Pau Codina, cello

Pau Codina, born in 1988 in Barcelona, is an accomplished cellist known for his remarkable talent and extensive performance history across Europe. His journey with the cello began at the tender age of five under the tutelage of Eulàlia Subirà in Manlleu, Barcelona. His passion and dedication to the instrument led him to prestigious institutions such as the Yehudi Menuhin School, the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and the Chapelle Musicale Reine Elisabeth, where he honed his skills under the guidance of renowned cellists Louise Hopkins and Gary Hoffman. Codina’s career is marked by performances in some of the most prestigious concert halls in Europe. He has graced stages such as the Wigmore Hall, Royal Festival Hall, Barbican Hall, Concertgebouw Amsterdam, Flagey, Bozar, Pau Casals Auditorium, L’Auditori de Barcelona, and the Palau de la Música Catalana Concert Hall in Barcelona. His versatility as a musician is evident as he performs both as a soloist and a chamber musician, captivating audiences with his profound musicality and technical precision. As a soloist, Pau Codina has collaborated with numerous esteemed orchestras. His notable appearances include performances 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. Pau Codina´s discography includes a recording of Saint-Saëns’ Suite Op. 16 for cello and orchestra with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra of Liege, conducted by Christian Arming, under the label Fuga Libera. More recently, he performed Robert Schumann’s Cello Concerto in A minor, Op. 129, with the Camera Musicae Orchestra, conducted by Salvador Mas. In addition to his performance achievements, Pau Codina has garnered numerous accolades and awards throughout his career. He is the recipient of the MBF’s Guilhermina Suggia Award and the Kronberg Cello Festival Schlosskonzert Prize. His talent and artistry have also been recognized at the Primer Palau Competition in Barcelona, where he won both the third prize and the Critique’s Award. Furthermore, he secured the first prize in the Concurso Permanente competition of Jeunesses Musicales of Spain. Currently, Pau Codina is a member of several prominent ensembles, including the Esbjerg Ensemble, Oculi Ensemble, and Trio Fortuny. 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 Danish music scene. Trio Fortuny, formed from the deep friendship between Codina, violinist Joel Bardolet, and pianist Marc Heredia, is particularly notable for its dynamic performances and unique musical projects across Europe. The trio has performed on major European stages and has recorded two albums in digital video format featuring works by Schubert, Brahms, Beethoven, Shostakovich, and Mendelssohn. Their collaborative efforts are influenced by esteemed musicians and mentors such as Ferenc Rados, Rainer Schmidt, Claudio Martínez, Gary Hoffman, Anton Kernjak, and Jonathan Brown. Trio Fortuny’s performances have been featured at prestigious festivals, including the Wissembourg International Music Festival, Portaferrada, Temporada Ibercamera Girona, the Centro Nacional de Difusión Musical, L ‘Auditori de Barcelona, Bachcelona, and the Palau de la Música Catalana. Notably, they have secured an artistic residency at the Palau de la Música Catalana for three seasons starting from 2023-2024, further cementing their reputation in the classical music world. Pau Codina’s contributions to music, both as a performer and collaborator, continue to inspire and influence audiences and fellow musicians alike. His dedication to his craft and his ability to seamlessly blend technical skill with emotional depth make him a standout cellist of his generation. As he continues to perform and expand his repertoire, Pau Codina’s impact on the classical music landscape is poised to grow even more significant.

Eddie Pogossian, cello

Edvard Pogossian, widely known as Eddie Pogossian, is a highly accomplished cellist whose exceptional talent and dedication to music have garnered him international acclaim. Born into a family with a rich musical heritage, Pogossian began his cello studies at a young age and quickly demonstrated remarkable skill and musicality. In 2022, Pogossian achieved significant recognition as the proud Overall Winner, Strings Winner, and Audience Prize Winner at the prestigious Tunbridge Wells International Music Competition. This notable achievement is a testament to his outstanding technical proficiency and profound interpretive abilities. Eddie Pogossian’s talent was further recognized when he won the Juilliard Concerto Competition, leading to a series of remarkable performances. He played Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations with the Juilliard Orchestra under the baton of the legendary Itzhak Perlman. These performances took place at esteemed venues, including David Geffen Hall in New York and the Harris Theater in Chicago. The Chicago Tribune praised his performances, highlighting his “astonishing musical and technical maturity” and “winning lightness of touch to everything he played, combined with a velvety tone.” Throughout his career, Eddie Pogossian has appeared as a soloist with several renowned orchestras, including the Boston Pops, Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, Royal Northern Sinfonia, and the New Mexico Philharmonic. His collaborations with these orchestras have solidified his reputation as a cellist of extraordinary caliber. Eddie Pogossian’s commitment to chamber music is equally noteworthy. He attended the esteemed Yellow Barn and the Marlboro Festival from 2019 to 2022, where he honed his skills and collaborated with other distinguished musicians. He is a dedicated member of Trio Isimsiz, a piano trio that has performed extensively throughout Europe, with notable appearances at the renowned Wigmore Hall. His contributions to the trio are marked by his deep musical insight and expressive playing. In addition to his performance career, Eddie Pogossian has recently taken on a new role as a professor at the Royal Northern College of Music. This professorship allows him to share his extensive knowledge and experience with the next generation of cellists, fostering their growth and development in the field of classical music. Eddie Pogossian is also a frequent guest principal cellist with the Royal Northern Sinfonia, where his leadership and musicianship are highly valued. His involvement with the orchestra further demonstrates his versatility and ability to excel in various musical settings. Edvard Pogossian’s achievements and contributions to the world of classical music are significant and far-reaching. His technical mastery, combined with his expressive musicality, has captivated audiences around the globe. As he continues to perform, teach, and collaborate with other musicians, Pogossian’s influence on the classical music landscape is sure to grow, inspiring both audiences and fellow musicians alike. With a career that seamlessly blends solo performances, chamber music, and educational endeavours, Eddie Pogossian stands out as a versatile and dynamic cellist. His recent appointment as a professor at the Royal Northern College of Music marks a new chapter in his journey, where he will undoubtedly continue to make substantial contributions to the world of classical 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.  

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.

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 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.

Christian Ihle Hadland has, over the past decade, established himself as one of Norway’s leading pianists and a true craftsman of his instrument. Known for his refined touch, musical sensitivity, and deep interpretive insight, he is equally at home in solo, concerto, and chamber settings. His delicate and intelligent approach has made him a sought-after artist on some of the world’s most prestigious stages.

Born in Stavanger in 1983, Christian Ihle Hadland began playing the piano at the age of eight and showed early promise. At eleven, Christian was admitted to the Rogaland Music Conservatory, and in 1999 he began studies with the renowned teacher Jiří Hlinka, both privately and at the Barratt Due Institute of Music in Oslo. This strong foundation led to his professional concerto debut at the age of fifteen with the Norwegian Radio Orchestra (KORK).

In 2011, Christian came to international attention as a BBC New Generation Artist, a prestigious scheme that supports emerging talents. During his two-year tenure, he performed with all five BBC orchestras across the UK and gave a series of solo and chamber recitals broadcast by the BBC. He concluded this residency with a major highlight: performing Beethoven’s Second Piano Concerto with the Oslo Philharmonic under Vasily Petrenko at the BBC Proms, where his playing was praised for its “pearly” tone and “otherworldly” expressiveness by the London press.

Christian has appeared as a concerto soloist with all the major orchestras in Scandinavia, including the Oslo Philharmonic, the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra, the Danish National Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic, and the Helsinki Philharmonic. In the UK, he has performed with the Hallé Orchestra, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Manchester Camerata, and several BBC ensembles. Recent international engagements include his debut with the Orchestre National de Lyon under Leonard Slatkin, a return to the Helsinki Philharmonic with Thomas Søndergård, and concerts with the BBC Philharmonic and the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra. His appearances in France, Germany, and Japan have also been widely praised.

A highly respected chamber musician, Christian is the Artistic Director of the International Chamber Music Festival in Stavanger, a position he has held since 2010. He is a frequent guest at Wigmore Hall, where he made his solo debut in 2013, and is a regular artist at the Bergen International Festival. He has also performed at the BBC Proms Chamber Music Series, collaborating with ensembles like the Signum Quartet. His chamber partners include Susan Graham, with whom he toured Australia in 2015 alongside the Australian Chamber Orchestra, and Renée Fleming, with whom he performed at the Nobel Prize Award Ceremony in 2006.

Christian Ihle Hadland’s discography is rich and diverse. His recording of Mozart piano concertos with the Oslo Philharmonic was nominated for a Spellemann Prize, Norway’s top recording award. He won the prize in 2015 with Holberg Variations, recorded with Ensemble 1B1. His collaboration with cellist Andreas Brantelid on a disc of works by Grieg and Grainger (BIS) was chosen as a Gramophone Editor’s Choice. Other recent highlights include The Lark (Simax), nominated for the 2017 Spellemann Prize, and Nordic Rhapsody with violinist Johan Dalene, showcasing music from across the Nordic countries.

Christian Ihle Hadland has collaborated with many of the world’s finest conductors, including Sir Andrew Davis, Herbert Blomstedt, and Thomas Dausgaard. He continues to perform across Europe and beyond, earning acclaim for his poetic sound, stylistic integrity, and deep musical understanding.

Whether in the concert hall, recording studio, or chamber setting, Christian Ihle Hadland brings a thoughtful, human quality to every performance, confirming his place as one of the most gifted and versatile pianists of his generation.

Maria Włoszczowska, violin

Maria Włoszczowska is a Polish violinist acclaimed for her versatility, expressive artistry, and thoughtful musicianship. Equally at home as a soloist, chamber musician, concertmaster, and director, she has established herself as one of the most distinctive and engaging performers of her generation.

Maria began the 2022/23 season with a major milestone: her BBC Proms solo debut, performing Kaija Saariaho’s Vers toi qui es si loin with the Royal Northern Sinfonia under Dinis Sousa. As Leader of the Royal Northern Sinfonia, she regularly directs programmes from the violin, blending leadership and performance with natural musical authority. Highlights have included directing and performing Beethoven’s Violin Concerto, which showcases both her technical mastery and her deep interpretive insight.

Her international presence continues to grow. She makes her Hong Kong debut at the Musicus Festival, and this season also joins the violin faculty at Yellow Barn, Vermont — a renowned hub for creative musical exploration. As a recitalist, Maria gave her New York debut at 92NY, performing all six Bach Sonatas for violin and keyboard with pianist Jeremy Denk. Their musical partnership continues this season with performances at the Lammermuir Festival.

Maria Włoszczowska appears regularly at Wigmore Hall and is a frequent guest at major international festivals, including Musikdorf Ernen, IMS Prussia Cove, Yellow Barn, and Lammermuir Festival. Her chamber music partners include a remarkable roster of artists such as Thomas Adès, Alasdair Beatson, Philippe Graffin, Bengt Forsberg, Benjamin Grosvenor, Steven Isserlis, Steven Osborne, Hyeyoon Park, Timothy Ridout, and the Doric String Quartet. These collaborations reflect both her artistic curiosity and her commitment to high-level ensemble playing.

In 2023, Maria Włoszczowska founded the Valo Quartet, which she leads. The ensemble made its debut in Brussels under the auspices of Festival Resonances, drawing acclaim for its dynamic and sensitive interpretations.

A major facet of Maria’s artistic identity is her work with the Chamber Orchestra of Europe, one of the world’s most respected chamber orchestras. Alongside her guest appearances as concertmaster, she now also serves as an Artistic Director with the orchestra, helping shape its artistic vision while continuing to perform in a leadership role. She has also worked as guest leader with the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen and has appeared as a soloist with numerous orchestras across the UK and her native Poland.

This season, she returns to Leipzig’s Gewandhaus, appearing as soloist with Reinhard Goebel and the Neues Bachisches Collegium Musicum, bringing her deep affinity for historically informed performance into focus.

Maria has received several major awards, including the Royal Philharmonic Society’s Emily Anderson Prize, the Hattori Foundation Senior Award, and Poland’s Minister of Culture and National Heritage Prize. In 2018, she was awarded both First Prize and the Audience Prize at the XXI Leipzig International Johann Sebastian Bach Competition, a recognition of her deep connection to Bach’s music and her poetic, intelligent playing.

She studied with András Keller at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, where she developed a refined and distinctive voice under the mentorship of one of Europe’s great violinists and conductors.

Maria Włoszczowska plays on a Francesco Stradivari violin, whose warm, expressive tone perfectly complements her nuanced and deeply communicative playing. With a growing international reputation and a passionate commitment to musical exploration, she continues to shape a multifaceted career that brings together solo performance, chamber music, orchestral leadership, and artistic direction at the highest level.

Hélène Clément, viola

Hélène Clément is an internationally acclaimed French violist celebrated for her rich, expressive playing, deep dedication to chamber music, and inspiring contributions to the next generation of musicians. Born in France in 1988, Clément has carved out a remarkable career that bridges solo, chamber, and orchestral work, while embracing her adopted musical home in the UK since moving to London in 2013.

From an early age, Clément was drawn to the voice of the viola — its warmth, subtlety, and emotional depth. Her ferocious enthusiasm for chamber music and the viola repertoire has led her to collaborate with a wide range of artists, ensembles, and composers, continually expanding her musical horizons. She performs regularly in many of the world’s most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall in New York, the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Konzerthaus in Berlin, Queen Elizabeth Hall and Wigmore Hall in London, the Cité de la Musique in Paris, the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, and the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia.

Clément’s chamber music collaborators are among the most distinguished artists of our time, including Mitsuko Uchida, Elisabeth Leonskaja, Nicolas Altstaedt, Benjamin Grosvenor, Alexander Melnikov, and Peter Wispelwey, as well as esteemed ensembles like the Brentano String Quartet and the Nash Ensemble. She is a regular participant at elite international festivals such as the Marlboro Music Festival in the United States and Prussia Cove in the UK, both known for their focus on deep musical collaboration and artistic exploration.

As the violist of the Doric String Quartet from 2013 to 2024, Clément was an integral part of one of Europe’s leading chamber ensembles. With the quartet, she performed in major venues across Europe, North America, Asia, Israel, Australia, and New Zealand, bringing both passion and precision to a broad repertoire ranging from Haydn to contemporary commissions. The Doric String Quartet records exclusively with Chandos Records, and their critically acclaimed discography includes works by Haydn, Britten, Mozart, Mendelssohn, and Schubert, among others. Their performances were praised for their clarity, insight, and unity, with Clément’s playing bringing a radiant inner voice to the ensemble’s finely honed sound.

In addition to her performance career, Clément is a passionate teacher and mentor. She teaches viola and chamber music at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where she nurtures a new generation of players with the same energy and curiosity that define her own artistry. She is also one of the Artistic Directors of the Mendelssohn on Mull Festival, where she plays a key role in guiding young professionals through an intensive week of coaching, rehearsals, and performances. Her work at the festival emphasizes musical exchange, mentorship, and the spirit of shared discovery.

Clément performs on a historically significant 1843 Italian viola by Francesco Giussani, once owned by Frank Bridge and later by Benjamin Britten, who composed many of his key works with this very instrument in mind. The viola is generously on loan from Britten Pears Arts. This connection to British musical heritage holds deep meaning for Clément, who has performed and recorded works by both Bridge and Britten, including a Chandos recording with Alasdair Beatson and Sarah Connolly, honoring the legacy of the instrument and the composers who wrote for it.

Known for her warmth on stage, musical integrity, and the emotional honesty of her playing, Hélène Clément brings depth, intelligence, and poetic nuance to everything she does. Whether in intimate chamber settings, teaching studios, or leading young musicians on the Isle of Mull, she continues to shape and inspire the global chamber music community.

Pablo Hernán Benedí, violin

Pablo Hernán Benedí was born in Madrid, where his journey with the violin began. His initial training took place at the Padre Antonio Soler Conservatory in San Lorenzo de El Escorial under the guidance of Polina Kotliarskaya. His early promise in music was evident, and in 2009, he moved to London to further his studies at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Here, he was mentored by distinguished violinists David Takeno and András Keller. Benedí’s education was supported by scholarships from the Martin Musical Scholarship Fund (MMSF), Juventudes Musicales, and La Caixa. An influential figure in his development has been Gordan Nikolic, with whom he has maintained regular contact since the age of 14. In 2010, Pablo Benedí became a member of the renowned Chiaroscuro Quartet. With this ensemble, he has performed at some of the world’s most esteemed concert venues, including London’s Wigmore Hall, New York’s Carnegie Hall, Vienna Konzerthaus, Berlin’s Boulez Saal, Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw, Tokyo’s Oji Hall, and the Auditorio Nacional in Madrid. The quartet boasts an extensive discography and has received numerous accolades, notably the Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik in 2015, Germany’s most prestigious CD award. Pablo Benedí is also a founding member of the Trio Isimsiz, established in 2011. The trio has garnered significant recognition, winning the Borletti-Buitoni Trust Award Fellowship, first prize and the audience prize at the Trondheim International Chamber Music Competition, and second prize at the Haydn Vienna Competition. Their future engagements include performances at the Beethoven Haus as part of the Complete Beethoven’s Chamber Music series and the complete Beethoven Trios at the Wigmore Hall in London. They are also commissioning a new trio from composer Francisco Coll. As a soloist, Pablo Benedí has performed with several prominent orchestras, including the Philharmonia Orchestra, London Chamber Players, and Concerto Budapest. He is also a regular collaborator as leader or section leader with ensembles such as Arcangelo, Concerto Budapest, Chamber Orchestra of Europe, and the Swedish Radio Orchestra. Pablo Hernán Benedí performs on the “Alard” J.B. Vuillaume violin from 1851 and a 1570 Andrea Amati violin, which he plays with his quartet. Pablo Hernán Benedí’s career is marked by his versatile performances both as a soloist and chamber musician. His contributions to the Chiaroscuro Quartet and Trio Isimsiz highlight his commitment to exploring the depth of chamber music while his solo performances demonstrate his virtuosity and expressive range. As he continues to engage with audiences worldwide, Benedí’s artistry remains a testament to his dedication and passion for music.