277: Florian Pertzborn on Europoean orchestral experiences

Florian Pertzborn double bass

Florian Pertzborn launched the European Orchestra Experience Award for the BASSEUROPE Orchestral Competition this year in Prague.

The recipients were:

  • 1st prize: Luzia Vieira
  • 2nd prize: Zuzana Blahova
  • 3rd prize: Andrea Cocco

Florian and I got a chance to sit down in the beautiful courtyard of the HAMU in Prague to discuss this competition.  We talk about why Florian launched this and what benefits he sees it bringing to young double bassists.

We also cover:

  • life as a musician in Porto, Portugal
  • a typical season for Casa da Música (Florian’s orchestra)
  • the international makeup of this orchestra.

It was great to chat with Florian!  He’s a great guy and is working hard to provide opportunities for young bassists across Europe.

Links to check out:

Florian and Jason in Prague for BASS2016!
Florian and Jason in Prague for BASS2016!

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By Jason

An active double bass performer and teacher, Jason teaches double bass at DePaul University and served on the Board of Directors of the International Society of Bassists for many years. Jason is the current President of the Illinois chapter of the American String Teachers Association. Jason has been a member of the Elgin Symphony since 2000 and has played with the Midsummer’s Music Festival in Door County for the past decade. He is a past member of the Milwaukee Ballet and IRIS Orchestra, and has performed with the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Grant Park Symphony, and numerous other professional ensembles.