Introduction

Praised for his “interpretive imagination and patrician command of the cello” (Cleveland Plain Dealer), René Schiffer is recognized as one of the most creative musicians on the international period-instrument scene. A native of Holland, he was a protégé of the great Dutch cellist Anner Bijlsma. He is particularly admired for his interpretation of the Bach cello suites, all of which he performs from memory. He is also a specialist in Romantic cello, performing the works of Beethoven and Schubert on gut strings in historical style.

Education

  • Sweelinck Conservatory in Amsterdam
  • Oberlin Conservatory (viola da gamba)

Teaching Experience

  • Cleveland Institute of Music (2015-present)
  • Master classes and coachings for the New World Symphony (Miami), University of Michigan, Oberlin Conservatory, Cincinnati College-Conservatory, Penn State University, and the Cleveland Music Settlement