Christof Michael Huebner, a renowned violist, passed away at the age of 61. Born in Graz, Austria, Huebner dedicated 27 years to the GRAMMY Award-winning Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, where he played viola and served as artistic director. He is remembered for his exceptional musicianship, sensitive playing, and strong leadership.
A graduate of Vienna’s Conservatory of Music and Hochschule für Musik, Huebner studied under Hatto Beyerle, a member of the Alban Berg Quartet.
At just 19 years old, he was appointed to the Vienna State Opera, where he performed with both the Vienna Chamber Orchestra and the Vienna Philharmonic. His musical journey also took him to the U.S., where a Fulbright scholarship allowed him to study with violist Michael Tree. During his time in the U.S., Huebner performed with the Musicians from Marlboro and the Boston Symphony.
In addition to his performance career, Huebner founded the Walden Chamber Players in Boston. For 23 years, the group maintained residencies, commissioned new works, and performed throughout the U.S. In more recent years, Huebner pursued a second career as a real estate agent in Baltimore.
Huebner passed away after battling esophageal cancer, which was diagnosed in early 2022.
The Orpheus Chamber Orchestra shared their sorrow on Facebook, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Christof Huebner, Orpheus violist and former artistic director. He was a dedicated musician and valued colleague, whose sharp wit left a lasting impact both on and off the stage. He will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with Christof’s family, loved ones, and all the musicians who had the privilege of performing alongside him.”
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