The soul of Strings - String Orchestra

Classical Concert

Willem Hijstek Hall, Bonnefantenstraat 15 Maastricht

19:30

- Free admission, no reservation required -

Be enchanted by a night of classical brilliance at Conservatorium Maastricht

You are warmly invited to an evening of unforgettable music in the beautiful concert hall of Conservatorium Maastricht. Let yourself be carried away by the expressive sound of the Conservatorium Maastricht string orchestra, led by artistic directors Mihai Cocea (viola, soloist) and Hiroyuki Yamazaki (double bass), both celebrated performers and dedicated teachers at the conservatorium.

Programme:
Mozart – Divertimento in B-Flat Major, Kv.137
Hindemith – Trauermusik suite for viola and string orchestra (Soloist: Mihai Cocea)
Tchaikovsky – Serenade for Strings, Op. 48

The concert opens with Mozart’s sparkling Divertimento in B-flat Major, KV 137, a piece full of elegance and buoyant melodies that reflect the youthful brilliance of the composer. Next comes an evocative solo viola work by Paul Hindemith, performed by Mihai Cocea. In this piece, Hindemith reveals the full range of the viola’s expressive character, from lyrical intimacy to bold virtuosity. The programme concludes with Tchaikovsky’s beloved Serenade for Strings, Op. 48 – a passionate and sweeping masterpiece that remains one of the cornerstones of the string repertoire. Together with our students, Mihai Cocea and Hiroyuki Yamazaki bring these works to life in an evening of warmth, expression, and musical refinement.

Don’t miss this inspiring musical experience!

Portrait of Mihai Cocea

About Mihai Cocea

Mihai Cocea is celebrated for his warm tone and expressive playing, revealing the full spectrum of the viola’s colors. As principal viola of the Brussels Philharmonic since 2017, he has been at the forefront of numerous concerts and recordings. His artistic journey has taken him to prestigious venues such as Tonhalle Zürich, Wigmore Hall, and the Bucharest Atheneum, captivating audiences in both solo and chamber music settings. He has collaborated with renowned artists including Daishin Kashimoto, Alexander Sitkovetsky, and Nicolas Dautricourt. Since September 2023, Cocea has been sharing his passion and expertise as main subject teacher Viola at Conservatorium Maastricht, inspiring the next generation of musicians.

Portrait of Hiroyuki Yamazaki playing Double Bass

About Hiroyuki Yamazaki

Double bassist Hiroyuki Yamazaki demonstrates the extraordinary lyrical and virtuosic qualities of his instrument, turning the double bass into a voice of remarkable depth and beauty. Since 2005, he has served as principal double bassist of the Bremer Philharmoniker, shaping its sound with his distinctive artistry. He has performed under legendary conductors such as Claudio Abbado, Seiji Ozawa, and Lorin Maazel, and collaborated with leading orchestras and chamber ensembles across Europe and Japan. Alongside his orchestral career, Yamazaki has appeared as a soloist and given masterclasses in Italy and Japan. In 2023, he joined the faculty of Conservatorium Maastricht as Main subject teacher Double Bass, where he now inspires students with his wealth of experience and musical vision.