Martin Schaefer

Martin Schaefer is a Professor of Viola at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM), where he specializes in training string musicians and chamber ensembles. He previously held positions as sub-principal viola with the Hallé Orchestra in Manchester and served as no. 3 and acting principal with BBC NOW. His career combines performance with education, drawing from extensive experience in major orchestras like Berliner Philharmoniker and London Symphony Orchestra.

• Born in Rees, Germany
• Studied at Robert Schumann Hochschule Düsseldorf and Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler Berlin
• Masterclass training with Wolfram Christ, Tabea Zimmermann, and Artemis Quartett

Martin’s research focuses on advanced viola pedagogy, orchestral techniques, and chamber music dynamics. His work bridges performance excellence with educational innovation.

Scientific Awards

• Jugend musiziert Prize
• Concertino Praga Prize
• Klassikpreis des WDR
• Max Reger Preis Karlsruhe