World-Class Cellist Daniel Müller-Schott on Music’s Transformative Power and Upcoming Seoul Recital
seoul, South Korea - German cellist Daniel Müller-Schott, a highly sought-after soloist for the world’s leading orchestras including the Berlin Philharmonic, New York Philharmonic, and London Symphony, believes music is far more than just entertainment. Ahead of his upcoming recital in Seoul, Müller-Schott shared his conviction that music possesses “the power to cultivate concentration, memory and empathy,” acting as a vital medium for sharing and communication.
[Image of Daniel Müller-Schott. ⒸKAUPO kikkas]
The celebrated cellist will grace the stage of the Seoul Arts Center concert Hall on November 12th, accompanied by pianist Cho Jae-hyuk. This marks Müller-Schott’s first recital performance in seven years, since 2018. The program will feature cornerstone works of German musical history: Beethoven’s Cello Sonata No.3, Brahms’ Cello Sonata No. 2, Schumann’s Fantasiestücke, and Webern’s ‘Three pieces.’
“The center of this program is Beethoven and Brahms,” Müller-Schott explained. “If beethoven created a new type of sonata where the piano and cello share their language in equal positions, Brahms shows a symphony sonata that melted the color of the orchestra.”
[Image of Daniel Müller-Schott. ⒸUWE Arens]
Müller-Schott’s deep connection to music stems from a childhood immersed in sound. Raised by a mother who was both a half-court player and piano teacher, he first encountered music through the recorder before taking up the cello at age five. He credits yo-Yo Ma’s performance of the Schumann Cello Concerto with igniting his passion for the instrument. His talent quickly blossomed, leading to a victory at the Tchaikovsky Youth International Competition at age 15 and a dedicated career as a professional musician.
Beyond performance, Müller-Schott is committed to fostering the next generation of music lovers. He actively seeks opportunities to connect with young audiences, visiting schools and inviting children to concerts to demystify the lives of musicians and share the emotional resonance of music. He participates in initiatives like Rhapsody In School, a German program bringing musical experiences directly into classrooms.
[Caption: Daniel Müller-Schott actively supports youth music education programs.]
Müller-Schott also champions expanding the repertoire, demonstrating a particular fondness for the work of Austrian composer Alban Berg.He describes Berg’s music as containing “the experience that anyone can feel intense in the micro texture.” He believes a musician’s role extends beyond simply repeating familiar pieces.
“As a musician, it is not enough to always play the same song,” he stated.
Müller-Schott views chamber music,alongside solo work and orchestral performances,as a crucial aspect of his artistry. He likens the collaborative environment to acting, emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s role – whether leading, supporting, or being supported – within the ensemble.
Tickets for Daniel Müller-Schott’s recital on November 12th at the Seoul Arts center Concert Hall are available [link to ticket details].
Keywords: Daniel Müller-Schott, cello, recital, Seoul Arts Center, classical music, Beethoven, Brahms, Schumann, Webern, Cho Jae-hyuk, Berlin Philharmonic, New York Philharmonic, London Symphony, music education, chamber music, Alban Berg.
