Paul Meisen was a renowned German flutist and professor born in Hamburg in 1933. Coming from a musical family—his father a bass trombonist and his mother a harpist—he studied flute under notable teachers like Johannes Lorenz, Kurt Redel, and Jaunet. Meisen built an impressive career as a principal flutist in prestigious orchestras including the Baden National Orchestra, the Philharmonic National Orchestra Hamburg, and the Munich National Theatre Orchestra. He won first prize at the ARD competition in 1960, marking a significant milestone in his career. Later on, Meisen transitioned to teaching, holding positions at the Detmold University of Music, the University of Music and Performing Arts Munich, and as a visiting professor in Tokyo. His contribution to flute pedagogy includes his recognition of the importance of technical exercises, especially those by Taffanel, which he expanded and adapted to help flute players develop better technique and musicality.
His extensive discography, featuring works ranging from Bach to Beethoven and Haydn, showcases his refined artistry and dedication to classical flute repertoire. Beyond performance and teaching, Meisen was also involved in judging at international flute competitions such as the Kobe International Flute Competition. He passed away in 2020 at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy cherished by students and colleagues worldwide.
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