Volker David Kirchner Sheet Music

About Volker David Kirchner

Volker David Kirchner (1942-2020) was a distinguished German composer and violist, celebrated for his profound and often politically charged operas that graced major German stages. Kirchner's musical language, while deeply rooted in classical traditions, consistently sought to convey a message, a philosophy he encapsulated by stating, "Music without a message is for me no music." Beyond his impactful stage works, his oeuvre encompasses a rich variety of genres, including symphonies, concertos, sacred music, and a significant body of chamber music, establishing him as a significant voice in late 20th and early 21st-century German music.

  • Volker David Kirchner served for over two decades as a violist in the Radio-Sinfonie-Orchester Frankfurt from 1966 to 1988, concurrently performing with the Kehr Trio, which toured internationally.
  • He began composing at the remarkably early age of seven and took his first violin lessons with his grandfather in his hometown of Mainz.
  • Kirchner was significantly influenced by prominent composers such as Bernd Alois Zimmermann during his studies at the Hochschule für Musik Köln.
  • His opera Gilgamesh received a prestigious commission for the Expo 2000, and his Missa Moguntina was composed specifically for the Mainz Cathedral, reflecting his deep connection to his roots.

Performing Volker David Kirchner's music offers a profoundly rewarding experience for musicians across various instruments and skill levels. His extensive catalogue provides opportunities for string players (violin, viola, cello), woodwind and brass instrumentalists, pianists, organists, and vocalists, alongside a substantial body of chamber music for diverse ensembles. Players will find his compositions deeply expressive, demanding both technical proficiency and a keen understanding of his intention to communicate profound themes and narratives, making each performance a compelling artistic journey. His conscious engagement with musical traditions, combined with his unique voice, ensures that his sheet music provides a rich and engaging challenge for those seeking depth and meaning in their repertoire.

Search all Volker David Kirchner