Daniel Hope is to become President of the Beethoven-Haus in Bonn

At today’s general meeting, Daniel Hope was elected as the new president of the Beethoven-Haus Bonn association. He will succeed violist Tabea Zimmermann in this role in 2020. The violinist, who was born in South Africa and now lives in Berlin, is one of the classical music world’s leading international figures.

“I accept this election with the greatest pleasure,” says Hope. “For me, Beethoven is, in a sense, the Mount Everest of music history. I regard it as a great gift to be able to work with this institution steeped in tradition, which is at the heart of research into and the promotion of Beethoven’s work, and which is so closely linked to the name of my role model, Joseph Joachim.” Malte Boecker, Director of the Beethoven-Haus, is looking forward to shaping the future of the Beethoven-Haus alongside Daniel Hope: “Daniel Hope is valued and recognised worldwide for his musical work and music education. With him, we will further expand the path we have already embarked upon towards greater social outreach, international networking and reaching new audiences.”

Hope is regarded as an artist who strives to break down the barriers that divide individuals, communities and nations, and sees himself as a musical activist. His commitment spans a broad spectrum: since 2016, he has been the presenter of a weekly radio programme on WDR3, the author of four books, and the host of a series of events at the Berlin Konzerthaus. For his achievements and commitment, Hope has been honoured with, amongst other awards, the European Culture Prize for Music (2015) and the Federal Cross of Merit (2017).

As a musician, Daniel Hope – who was significantly influenced by Yehudi Menuhin – first became known primarily as a member of the Beaux Arts Trio. During this period, the trio devoted itself intensively to the chamber music of Ludwig van Beethoven and performed it worldwide. Following the trio’s disbandment in 2008, Hope has also been in great demand as a soloist. At the start of the 2016/17 season, he succeeded Roger Norrington as Music Director of the Zurich Chamber Orchestra. Since the 2018/19 season, Hope has also been Music Director of the San Francisco-based New Century Chamber Orchestra. In 2019, he also became Artistic Director of the Dresden Frauenkirche, which for him is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of peace, reconciliation and tolerance.

Hope’s predecessor, Tabea Zimmermann – an outstanding violist, chamber musician and teacher – had taken over the role from the conductor Kurt Masur. During her presidency, she worked with the Spanish music programmer Luis Gago to develop the “BTHVN WEEK” into a festival with nationwide appeal. Beethoven Week takes place annually and, in 2020, will present Beethoven’s complete chamber music works in varying ensembles. Michael Kranz, Chairman of the Board of the Beethoven-Haus Bonn Association, paid tribute to her commitment to the Beethoven-Haus: “Tabea Zimmermann has had a decisive influence on the Beethoven-Haus in recent years. During her presidency, the chamber music programme was significantly expanded and has gained national recognition. In recognition of this commitment, she was today elected, along with Luis Gago, as an honorary member of the Beethoven-Haus Association by its members.”

Artists’ photos can be downloaded from the artists’ websites, but will also be sent on request.

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