Jan-Frederick Behrend

Prof. Jan-Frederick Behrend serves as Professor of Percussion at the University of Music and Theatre Rostock since 2013, leading the percussion class and ensemble alongside Prof. Henrik M. Schmidt. He concurrently holds a teaching position for drums and marimba at the Hamburg University of Music and Theatre since 2020, following prior lecturing roles there from 2003-2006.

Education:

• Graduated with honors in percussion from Hamburg University of Music and Theater (2001)

Artistic Research Focus: Behrend's work centers on percussion performance and contemporary classical music, with deep engagement in ensemble direction and film music composition. His practice bridges experimental and traditional forms through collaborations with composers like Sofia Gubaidulina and visual artists, emphasizing cross-disciplinary innovation in rhythmic structures and mallet instrumentation.

Scientific Awards:

• Rheingau Music Prize (2011) as member of classical cabaret trio Bidla Buh

Professional Leadership: Behrend mentors percussion students while maintaining active performance careers across major orchestras (Konzerthausorchester Berlin, NDR Symphony) and international festivals. His 2016-2017 direction of 'Night of the Drums' for the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival demonstrates significant ensemble leadership, with ongoing artistic development supported by institutional appointments and performance grants.

Ensemble Development: As founding member of Elbtonal Percussion since 2001, he has shaped the ensemble's evolution through 8 solo CDs, 3 DVDs, and film score contributions including 'Der Baader Meinhof Komplex', establishing a sustainable artistic infrastructure for contemporary percussion performance.