Michael Karg

Born in Amberg (Bavaria)

Member since 2014-09-08

Awards:

1st prize and special prizes – “Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy Conservatory Competition” 2014, 2nd Prize – “Leoš Janáček International Competition” 2013, 1st Prize – “International Johann-Matthias-Sperger Competition” 2012, 1st prize and special prize – “Jugend musiziert” Competition 2010

“My fascination with the bass arises from the combination of two very contrasting elements: on the one hand, due to its sheer size and weight, the instrument demands a physically exhausting and often animalistic style of playing from the musician. On the other hand, in terms of size and shape, it is sophisticated and perfectly formed. In the group, the double bass player takes on rhythmic tasks in particular, creating the harmonic framework for the orchestra. So, playing together requires good coordination and precision, in addition to the prerequisite musicality and the ability to listen. To be part of the bass section of the Berliner Philharmoniker and to be allowed to shape the unique sound of the orchestra from its very foundations fills me with pride and joy. Every second I can feel the enthusiasm for music and the desire to discover new things in it.”

Michael Karg came to the double bass while attending the arts high school in his home town of Amberg. In order to play in both the school orchestra and its big band, he decided to learn the double bass in addition to his other instruments, piano and guitar. The double bass soon became his main instrument. After a short time, he was accepted by the National Youth Orchestra of Germany and the Bavarian state youth orchestra. Dealing with large symphonic works and having contact with renowned conductors and soloists, he quickly realised he wanted to be an orchestral musician. Michael Karg began his studies under Professor Dorin Marc at Nuremberg University of Music and while still a student, he had the opportunity to participate in orchestra academies at major German music festivals.

As a winner of national and international competitions, he was invited by numerous orchestras and music festivals to perform as a soloist. He played for example with the Brandenburgisches Staatsorchester Frankfurt, the Neubrandenburger Philharmonie and the Junge Deutsche Philharmonie. He gained further orchestral experience as a temporary member of ensembles such as the symphony orchestras of Bayerischer and Westdeutscher Rundfunk and also with the Berliner Philharmoniker. He also has a great interest in chamber music. Michael Karg has been a member of the double bass section of the Berliner Philharmoniker since the beginning of the 2014/2015 season.