Susanne Achilles

Susanne Achilles is an Honorary Professor at the Folkwang Universität der Künste, specializing in piano and instrumental training within the department of Instrumental Training. She holds a distinguished career as a performer and educator, focusing on classical and contemporary music. Her teaching roles include long-term instruction in piano performance and preparatory education for aspiring pianists.

Education: Studied piano at Folkwang University (Essen) under Ludger Maxsein, continued at Hamburg Music University with Yara Bernette, and furthered studies in music theory with György Ligeti and lied accompaniment with Aribert Reimann. Engaged in masterclasses with notable pianists like Paul Badura-Skoda and Fausto Zadra.

Research Interests: Extensive exploration of contemporary music, including premieres of over 150 works across Europe, North America, and Asia. Specializes in interdisciplinary projects combining piano with electronics, multimedia, and chamber ensembles. Her work with the WOLPE TRIO (1992–2005) involved collaborations with over 70 composers, fostering new compositions and performances.

Teaching & Mentorship: Regularly invited to masterclasses in China (Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Wuhan). Advises and mentors students, emphasizing the interplay between performance practice and pedagogy. Her pedagogical approach is informed by both her artistic experiences and student interactions.

Labs/Teams: Co-founded and led the WOLPE TRIO, a group dedicated to commissioning and performing new works. Collaborated with percussionists like Christoph Caskel and Andreas Boettger in chamber music projects.