Ludger Vollmer - Violin Concerto; Transformations (Gernot Süßmuth)

Information

Composer: Ludger Vollmer

• Concerto for Violin and Orchestra
• Transformations for Solo Violin

Gernot Süßmuth, violin

Staatskapelle Weimar

Dominik Beykirch, conductor

Date: 2026

Label: audite Musikproduktion

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Composed during the 2020 lockdown for the Staatskapelle Weimar, Ludger Vollmer's Concerto for Violin, Lower Strings, Winds, and Percussion captures the unique atmosphere of that unprecedented period. The nearly 40-minute, four-movement piece originates from a fluid, six-note melodic formula evocative of a gliding seagull, a motif that unifies the entire work. Throughout each movement's distinct thematic profile, Vollmer showcases his signature storytelling approach through a mastery of rhythmic and melodic composition. Ultimately, the concerto captivates listeners by balancing a dense, narrative sound universe with a remarkably clear, structured formal design.

Ludger Vollmer is an internationally acclaimed composer renowned primarily for his operatic works, which have been staged across major global venues, including the Vienna State Opera. His extensive catalog spans all musical genres and has garnered numerous accolades, most notably the prestigious 2026 OPER! Award for his opera RUMMELPLATZ, which premiered during Chemnitz 2025. Educated by masters like Alfred Schnittke, Vollmer’s music is published by Schott Music. Based in Hamburg, he is a member of the Free Academy of the Arts and serves as President of the Hamburg State Music Council and Chairman of the German Composers Association’s regional branch.

Born in 1963, German violinist and BSW politician Gernot Süßmuth is the first concertmaster of the Staatskapelle Weimar and an honorary professor at the University of Music Franz Liszt Weimar. A former prodigy who debuted as an orchestral soloist at age nine, Süßmuth served as concertmaster for both the Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Staatskapelle Berlin. An acclaimed chamber musician and conductor, he performed with the prominent Petersen Quartet, directed the European Union Chamber Orchestra, and founded the Thüringer Bach Collegium. His extensive international career spans prestigious global tours, festival leadership, and a lifelong dedication to training young musicians.

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