Mathis Rochat

Swiss-French violist Mathis Rochat is celebrated as one of the most dynamic and creative violists of his generation. Born in 1994 in Geneva, he initially studied violin before switching to viola at age 13. Known for his rich, poetic sound and inventive approach, Rochat explores a wide repertoire, both original pieces and his own transcriptions, expanding the viola’s possibilities. He has performed as a soloist with notable orchestras including the Geneva Chamber Orchestra and the Norddeutsche Philharmonie, and at major festivals across Europe. His collaborations include working with renowned musicians like Pinchas Zuckermann and Christian Tetzlaff, highlighting his stature in the classical music world.

Rochat’s recording projects reveal his deep musical curiosity and skill, most notably his album *Rachmaninoff Stories*, where he arranged Rachmaninoff’s works—originally not composed for viola—for viola and piano, showcasing his passion for reinterpretation and fresh sound colors. His debut album, *L’alto Parnassien*, focused on French Impressionist music and was highly praised. Alongside performing, Rochat is an educator, holding a professorship at the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp and co-founding the TARA Chamber Concerts in Brussels. He trained with prominent teachers such as Antoine Tamestit and studied at the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel in Waterloo.

Genres

Folk

Avant-garde

Classical

Contemporary Classical

Chamber Music

Baroque

Romantic Music

Impressionism

Orchestral

Latest Release

Walton. Benjamin. Howells.

Mathis Rochat•

Abigel Kralik•

BBC National Orchestra Of Wales•

Howard Griffiths

Album - 7 Tracks - Released October 10, 2025