Joining forces to reach the goal

Practical training, especially for people who are already in professional life, is central to the KMH. It is a traditional notion that talented concert soloists are just waiting to be hired. The "Specialized Performance" Master's degree course addresses precisely this issue in order to show graduates how they can independently tap into the music market and/or design and implement their own projects:

Part of the final examination, which leads to the soloist diploma, includes the task of putting together an orchestra or getting in touch with one in order to realize a solo concert. The course director provides support in the background with know-how and a network.

Successful cooperation

A prime example of this model is now on the home straight: KMH student Aristotelis Papadimitriou and conductor Martin Studer will perform Sergei Rachmaninov's Second Piano Concerto in Zurich on May 16. For the upcoming project, in which Bruckner's Fourth Symphony is also on the program, Studer is now bringing together "his" various orchestras, which consist of a rich, well-cultivated pool of musicians. Here, seasoned professionals harmonize with young students and amateur musicians. 

Intergenerational promotion and motivation

Martin Studer has always focused on supporting young musicians in his many and varied activities. The fruits of his energy can be seen in the Phil-A, the NZO and ALSO: all orchestras that he has built up alongside other institutions and for which he is virtually solely responsible. The classic, motivating image of a "self-made man" who can look back with satisfaction on what he has achieved and is happy to pass on this experience and the associated knowledge. It is only right that the Canton of Zurich's Department of Culture has recognized his commitment with an award.

Stagnation is a step backwards 

Ideal conditions for Aristotelis Papadimitriou. Born in Greece, the multiple competition winner has already attended various music academies, completed artistic and music education studies and studied with various professors. In addition to his active solo career, he teaches at music schools in Zurich and the surrounding area. Even though he appreciates the stability, it is still not enough for Papadimitriou. In order to move forward and not stagnate, he wanted to fine-tune his skills with Barbara Szczepanska, who is also an accredited piano teacher at the KMH in addition to her professorship in Düsseldorf. The flexible, modular and highly independent study model is the only way he can combine the curriculum with his preferred lecturer and complete it while working.

The number one hit of classical-romantic literature is in C minor

Before Papadimitriou concludes his studies with a recital at the end of June, the penultimate exam is still to come. He and Studer have not chosen the work on the agenda at random; they want to offer the audience a favorite: Rachmaninov's Opus 18 leads the Classic FM Hall of Fame - so were voted on by the listeners of the British radio station.

It was already a hit when it was created: his concerto helped the Russian composer and pianist to make a comeback after a deep depression and creative crisis and manifested his fame.

Concert tip
"Romantic longing 3.0"
Thursday, 16.05.24, 19.30h Zurich, Church of St. Peter
Program:
S. Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, op. 18
A. Bruckner: Symphony No. 4 in E flat major "Romantic"
Tickets: www.nzo.ch