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Music students’ hands-on class with Berlin Philharmonic master

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Music students have taken a masterclass with internationally renowned horn player Stefan Dohr from the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra.

Five horn players studying at the University joined the special class with Mr Dohr, who was in the state to perform with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra.

They were put through their paces and offered a range of tips in a hands-on lesson at the Hedberg.

Among the students was second-year Bachelor of Music student and French horn player Aaron Molnar, who hopes to pursue a career with his instrument.

“It’s just an incredible feeling to be working with such a world-renowned musician,” he said.

“I really see it as a next step in my journey to become a horn player in an orchestra.”

Mr Dohr, principal horn for the Berlin Philharmonic, was in Hobart to perform concertos by Mozart and Strauss with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra.

His top tip for students was to listen to music “with open ears”.

“Music is always touching something that you can’t see,” Mr Dohr said.

“If I reach people with my music and give them some nice or whatever feelings … that’s wonderful.”

The students are part of the Classical Performance stream in the Bachelor of Music offered by the University at the new Hedberg performance precinct.

Head of Music Dr Arabella Teniswood-Harvey said providing students with the masterclass was part of the broad experience they received during their course.

“It’s such a fantastic opportunity for them to work with a musician who’s at the top of his game,” Dr Teniswood-Harvey said.

“He has such expertise and musicianship with both traditional repertoire and contemporary classical repertoire.”

The Bachelor of Music is offered with a range of streams that cater for all kinds of musicians, from classical performers to jazz players, songwriters and producers. Teaching is tailored to each stream and includes one-on-one tuition, ensembles, performances and industry interaction.

“Deep immersion in music enriches people’s lives in many ways and teaches skills and understandings that can be applied in many settings,” Dr Teniswood-Harvey said.

“University study offers the opportunity to focus on developing skills to the highest level possible, to think about music in new ways, to form networks and collaborate.

“There are many, varied work opportunities within music and the creative arts more broadly.”

Find out more about the University’s Music courses. Free lunchtime concerts take place most Fridays at The Hedberg.