Sarah Christian Appointed New Violin Professor at HMTM Munich

The University of Music and Theatre Munich (HMTM) has announced the appointment of Sarah Christian as its new professor of violin, effective October 1, 2025. This significant addition to the faculty highlights HMTM's commitment to fostering excellence in music education and performance.

Sarah Christian, who has been an influential figure in the classical music scene, previously served as a professor of violin at the State University of Music and the Performing Arts Stuttgart from 2019 until this year. She is known for her role as the first concertmaster of the Oslo Philharmonic since 2024 and has held the position of concertmaster at the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen since 2013.

In her statement regarding the new role, Christian expressed her enthusiasm for mentoring students, stating, 'I’m really looking forward to working with the students. I want to be there for them and do my best. I want to encourage them to follow their own personal musical path and to dare to find their own voice and make it heard – especially in today’s society. And I hope to make a lot of chamber music together.'

Christian's academic journey has been marked by rigorous training at prestigious institutions. She studied under Igor Ozim at the University Mozarteum Salzburg and Antje Weithaas at the Hanns Eisler School of Music Berlin, where she also served as an assistant professor from 2013 to 2016. Her accolades include notable awards such as second prize and the audience award at the 2017 ARD International Music Competition, as well as the Special Prize from the Munich Chamber Orchestra. Additionally, she has received accolades at the Michael Hill International Violin Competition and the International Johannes Brahms Competition in Pörtschach.

As a soloist, Christian has collaborated with esteemed orchestras, including the Camerata Salzburg, Auckland Philharmonia, and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra. Her performances have graced prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall, where she performed with the Bavarian State Orchestra. Furthermore, she actively participates in chamber music, having founded a chamber music series in Augsburg and initiating the Franz Ensemble, which focuses on performing rarely heard works. Her first album with the ensemble was awarded the Opus Klassik in 2020.

The appointment of Sarah Christian is expected to enrich the educational experience of students at HMTM, providing them with invaluable insights from her extensive experience in both performance and teaching. As the institution continues to enhance its offerings, Christian's role will likely play a pivotal part in shaping the next generation of violinists and fostering a vibrant musical community.

This move also reflects a broader trend in music education, where institutions strive to attract accomplished musicians who can bridge the gap between performance and pedagogy. As music continues to evolve, the integration of practical experience with academic instruction becomes increasingly essential.

In conclusion, Sarah Christian's upcoming tenure at the University of Music and Theatre Munich promises to be a transformative period for the institution and its students, as she aims to inspire, educate, and cultivate the next wave of talented musicians dedicated to their craft.