Clemens Hagen

Clemens Hagen is a Professor of Violoncello and Head of Cello Studies at the Strings Department of Mozarteum University's Institute for Chamber Music. A renowned cellist, he has performed with top orchestras including the Berlin Philharmonic and Vienna Philharmonic, collaborating with conductors like Nikolaus Harnoncourt and Claudio Abbado. Since 1988, he has taught at Mozarteum University, succeeding Heinrich Schiff as his mentor, and became a full professor in 2003 after habilitating in 2002.

Education: Began cello studies at Mozarteum University (Salzburg) before moving to Basel Conservatory. Influential teachers included Wilfried Tachezi and Heinrich Schiff.

Research Interests: Focuses on cello performance traditions, chamber music ensemble dynamics, and interpretation of classical-romantic repertoire. Specializes in works by Haydn, Beethoven, Brahms, and Schumann. Maintains close ties to historical instrument performance practices.

Discography Highlights: Over 45 recordings with the Hagen Quartet (Deutsche Grammophon), including complete Mozart and Bartók string quartets. Solo recordings include Brahms Double Concerto, Beethoven Triple Concerto, and Webern's cello-piano works.

Awards: 1983 Vienna Philharmonic Special Prize and Dr. Karl Boehm Prize. Recipient of multiple first prizes in international competitions.

Teaching & Career: Member of Lucerne Festival Orchestra since 2003. Joined Vienna Piano Trio in 2018/19. Maintains active performance schedule alongside teaching. Plays a 1698 Antonius Stradivarius cello.