Christian Tetzlaff

Christian Tetzlaff is a German violinist celebrated for his passionate performances and fearless exploration of a wide range of repertoire, from the great classical works to contemporary compositions. Born in Hamburg in 1966, he began playing the violin at age six and went on to study at prestigious institutions like the Lübeck Music Academy and the Juilliard School. Known for his warm, human approach to music-making, Tetzlaff often chooses to perform on a modern violin rather than a rare Stradivarius, valuing the directness and character it brings to his sound.

Throughout his career, Tetzlaff has performed with many of the world's leading orchestras and conductors, and he’s particularly admired for his interpretations of Beethoven, Brahms, and Schumann — as well as embracing challenging modern works by composers like Jörg Widmann and Sofia Gubaidulina. His frequent collaborations with chamber groups, including the Tetzlaff Quartet (which he founded), show his deep love for intimate music-making. Christian Tetzlaff's playing is often described as deeply insightful, technically dazzling, and emotionally compelling, making him a favorite among classical music fans worldwide.

Genres

Chamber Music

Classical

Latest Release

Brahms: Piano Quartets Nos. 2 & 3

Johannes Brahms•

Christian Tetzlaff•

Barbara Buntrock•

Tanja Tetzlaff•

Lars Vogt

Album - 8 Tracks - Released September 6, 2024