Gareth Lubbe

Gareth Lubbe is professor of viola at the Folkwang University of the Arts in Essen, Germany. For several years he was Principal Violist in the Gewandhaus Orchestra of Leipzig under Riccardo Chailly whilst teaching at the Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy Conservatory. He appears as soloist and chamber musician throughout Europe, America, Africa and Asia. As overtone singer, he performs and gives active lectures around the world, translating this phenomenon of multiphonic singing into the possibilities of sound production on one’s own instrument. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Gareth received his first musical education on piano and violin at the age of four. Already at a young age, he appeared as soloist and conductor. He also performed at the presidential inauguration of Nelson Mandela in Pretoria in 1994. Upon finishing school, he went on to study in Germany. He nevertheless continues to nurture his love for the mother continent, performing and teaching there on a regular basis.