Musician of the month: Noa Meshulam

Which instrument do you play at the Kölner Akademie and when did you start playing?
I play the clarinet and my first project with the Kölner Akademie was in May 2024.

What lead you to the Kölner Akademie?
I was recommended to Michael Alexander Willens by a former teacher.

In which other orchestras and ensembles do you play?
When I am not playing with the Kölner Akademie my main focus is on chamber music and particularly Ensembles, which enable me to highlight the vast range of instruments within the clarinet family. Lately I’ve been playing in the “Tulip Quartet”, a quartet with myself and three strings. I also have a trio, a clarinet- soprano-piano-trio, which is quite funny. We are called Terra Trio.

What do you think distinguishes your work with the Kölner Akademie?
The first thing that comes to mind is the choice of repertoire. Because the orchestra regularly performs and records less known works – music that certainly deserves to be recognized. For me, this type of work is not only interesting and refreshing, but also an important form of practice in historically informed performance. On top of that, the orchestra includes members from very versatile backgrounds and perspectives. This creates a very stimulating, productive and creative environment.

What do you like to do when you are not playing music?
I like sketch-drawing and oil-painting, knitting and crocheting, cycling, a little meditation and watching silent movies.