The master class and concert at the Akademia Muzyczna im. Krzysztofa Pendereckiego w Krakowie were very nice and enriching experiences. On the first evening, I played four of the five Beethoven cello sonatas (which we also performed at the Vienna Konzerthaus two weeks later) together with my colleague, cellist Matthias Gredler, in a more than full Florianka Concert Hall. The tremendous interest and enthusiasm of both students and professors contributed to a great atmosphere. Last but not least, the fantastic acoustics and a wonderful piano made the concert a very special experience.

The next morning, my two-day masterclass began. I really enjoyed working with the students. Everyone played beautifully and had a natural approach to the music. What particularly impressed me was the students’ curiosity, thirst for knowledge, and effort. So I had a very good impression of the academy.

Some of the students were currently preparing for a complete performance of Johannes Brahms’s piano works, which therefore represented a very special focus.

On the sidelines of the class, I was also able to have interesting conversations with my colleagues from Krakow about teaching, stylistics, and organizational matters at universities.

There was also enough time to enjoy the beautiful old town of Krakow and try culinary specialties.

I am very pleased to have been invited to teach at the Krakow Music Academy’s 2024 summer courses as well.