Gareth Lubbe

Gareth Lubbe is a Professor of Viola at the Folkwang University of the Arts, appointed in April 2013. A multi-faceted musician born in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1976, Lubbe demonstrates expertise across performance, composition, and vocal techniques. His career spans prestigious orchestral positions including Principal Viola with the Royal Flemish Philharmonic and Gewandhausorchester Leipzig.

Education

• Violin studies at Hochschule für Musik Köln (1995-2001)
• Chamber music studies with the Alban Berg Quartet
• Viola studies at Musikhochschule Lübeck under Barbara Westphal

Artistic Practice

Lubbe maintains an international performance career as soloist and chamber musician, collaborating with renowned artists including Claudio Abbado, Daniel Harding, and Fazil Say. His innovative work includes:

• Overtone singing performances and workshops worldwide
• Long-term collaboration with composer Hayden Chisholm
• Commissions for Deutsches Schauspielhaus Hamburg
• Interdisciplinary projects with artist Rebecca Horn
• Membership in contemporary ensemble Gelber Klang

Pedagogical Approach

Integrates classical training with improvisation and extended techniques, drawing from his diverse performance experience across Europe, Asia, and Africa.