Herta Hansena

Herta Hansena serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Chamber Ensemble and Piano Accompaniment at Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music, maintaining an active dual career as both educator and internationally recognized performer.

Education

• Master's Degree, Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Music Academy (1998)
• Professional Development, Gnessin Music Institute, Moscow (2008)

Artistic Focus: Professor Hansena specializes in chamber music synergy and collaborative piano techniques, with particular expertise in interpreting works by Baltic composers. Her performance practice bridges classical traditions and contemporary repertoire, evidenced by premieres of pieces dedicated to her by Latvian composers Maija Einfelde, Gundega Šmite, and Marīte Dombrovska.

Awards

• Latvian Great Music Award for Exceptional Ensemble Work (2013)
• Latvian Music Academy Award of the Year (2018)
• Multiple Diplomas for Best Accompanist
• Competition Preparation Awards for student prizes in Latvia, Lithuania, and Spain

Educational Impact: She has trained competition-winning students across Baltic and Iberian circuits while conducting annual masterclasses throughout Europe. Her pedagogical approach emphasizes ensemble communication and stylistic versatility, extending her influence through residencies in the Netherlands, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, and Italy.

Performance Network: Maintains longstanding artistic partnerships with cellist Ēriks Kiršfelds, mezzo-soprano Ieva Parša, and Riga Saxophone Quartet, while collaborating with international soloists including flutist William Bennett and cellist Kristine Blaumane at major festivals like Kremerata Baltica and Riga Festival.