Leading cellist Claudio Bohorquez introduces himself to Cypriot audiences for the first time ahead of his appearance at the International Pharos Chamber Music Festival.
With an international artistic presence and a distinguished career as both soloist and teacher, Claudio Bohorquez ranks among the most significant cellists of his generation. His performances stand out for their musicality, expressiveness, and deeply human interpretive mark — a personal style that draws inspiration from his Latin American roots in Uruguay and Peru. He describes his relationship with music as inseparably bound to the body and to rhythm: “I didn’t just listen to salsa and tango; I lived and danced them. That Latin energy pulses through my entire being and naturally shapes how I bring music to life on stage.”
You have performed in some of the world’s most important concert halls and festivals. Which experiences do you feel have most shaped your artistic identity as a cellist?
Looking back, the final rounds of the Geneva International Music Competition and the Pablo Casals Competition were absolute turning points for me. That kind of high-stakes environment tests you on every level, and you grow tremendously from the experience. Later on, debuting under the batons of legendary masters like Daniel Barenboim, Christoph Eschenbach, and Krzysztof Penderecki became unforgettable milestones.
Beyond great conductors, you have also collaborated with outstanding musicians. What makes a musical collaboration truly special for you?
It is always wonderful when we step out of our comfort zones and stay curious enough to react to the raw energy of the moment on stage. That is where the real magic of a live concert lies. Every single performance gives us the incredible privilege to dive deeper, discovering and revealing new truths within these absolute masterpieces.
You have a strong presence both as a soloist and in chamber music. What does chamber music offer you that a symphonic performance cannot?
The most obvious difference is the intimacy of playing in a small group versus being surrounded by nearly a hundred musicians on stage. But honestly, I could never choose between them. Both experiences are incredibly close to my heart, and I love them equally.
As a professor at the Hanns Eisler School of Music in Berlin, what do you consider the biggest challenge for young musicians today?
I think one of our biggest challenges is giving ourselves the time to actually grow. In such a fast-paced environment, it feels like we have very few moments of calm to reflect and really dive deep into our interpretations. On top of that, the music world is incredibly competitive, and the main hurdle is simply making a living doing what we love. In the end, the best advice remains the simplest: practice, practice, practice.
In an era where classical music is trying to reach younger audiences, what do you think can make the live concert experience even more meaningful?
I try to keep a regular presence on social media to reach younger audiences where they already are, sharing our curiosity and passion for classical music. Depending on the program, a few short introductory words from us as artists on stage can also make a huge difference.
When a concert ends and you are alone after the applause, what usually stays with you — the intensity, the silence, or something else?
It is always a bit different depending on the repertoire and the venue. But above all, I always feel pure joy and a deep sense of gratitude for another opportunity to share these masterpieces and my passion with the audience in what is always a completely unique live concert experience.
What do you know about Cypriot audiences, and what do you expect from this encounter?
This is my very first time performing at the International Pharos Chamber Music Festival, and I am so excited to experience Cypriot culture and meet the audience. Whenever I visit a place for the first time, I am always amazed by how music acts as a bridge for connection and communication. I can’t wait!
The 25th International Pharos Chamber Music Festival runs from May 29 to June 6. This year’s particularly ambitious edition features six evenings of chamber music at the Medieval Manor in Kouklia and culminates in the established grand gala concert at The Olive Grove in Delikipos. Claudio Bohorquez performs on Saturday May 30 and Sunday May 31 in Kouklia. Tickets: 22663871, pharosartsfoundation.org
