description Benjamin Schmid Overview
Benjamin Schmid is an Austrian violinist born in 1968 who has built a career bridging classical repertoire and jazz performance. After studying at the Juilliard School and winning the International Mozart Competition, he has performed as a soloist with major orchestras while collaborating with jazz musicians. Schmid teaches at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna and the Mozarteum in Salzburg, developing versatile violinists. He performs on the "Ex-Christie" Stradivarius and has recorded for multiple labels, releasing albums that showcase his cross-genre musical approach.
help Benjamin Schmid FAQ
What competition established Benjamin Schmid internationally?
Schmid won the Carl Flesch Competition in London in 1992, receiving the Mozart, Beethoven, and Audience Prizes. He had already made his Salzburg Festival debut in 1986 as Sir Yehudi Menuhin’s solo partner.
Which orchestras has Benjamin Schmid performed with?
His orchestral work includes appearances with the Vienna Philharmonic, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra, and Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich. His repertoire extends from Mozart and Beethoven to Korngold, Gulda, Weinberg, and Dutilleux.
Does Benjamin Schmid perform jazz as well as classical violin?
Yes. He is also a jazz improviser and has led programmes combining classical chamber music with jazz, including work connected with the ClassixKempten festival.
What violin does Benjamin Schmid play?
Schmid performs on the “ex Viotti 1718” Stradivarius, made available by the Austrian National Bank. He also plays a modern violin made in 2015 by Wiltrud Fauler.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
