Daniel Müller-Schott: View from a cello

One of the world’s most sought-after cellists, Daniel Müller-Schott performs on all the international concert stages, whether it’s with the New York Philharmonic, the London Symphony Orchestra, or the Gewandhaus Orchestra. He’s worked with the world’s greatest conductors, including Neeme Järvi, Andris Nelsons and Simone Young, and recorded over 30 albums for a diverse array of labels. He also enjoys combining the art of music with the visual arts and literature. 

In this conversation, Daniel recounts the impact of winning the Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow at age 15, a milestone that launched his professional career. He speaks warmly of his mentors, including Anne-Sophie Mutter, Steven Isserlis, and Mstislav Rostropovich, who taught him the expressive and human dimensions of music. 

Beyond the concert stage, we hear about Daniel’s interest in blending classical music with other art forms such as painting, dance, and film. Through his festival in Switzerland, he creates performances that invite audiences to experience music in fresh, multidimensional ways. He also reflects on the bond he shares with his centuries-old cello, his evolving creative process, and the importance of finding inspiration in art, travel, and everyday life.

Daniel Müller-Schott performs with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra from 22-25 October, before heading to Adelaide, Melbourne, Hobart and parts of New Zealand throughout November.