Martin Kohlstedt

Why Martin Kohlstedt has risen to prominence as one of the most innovative and successful pianists at the intersection of instrumental music and electronica can be experienced afresh on his latest album, »Live«. This release captures performances by the 1988-born Weimar-based pianist, who focuses on the future of the piano rather than its long-standing tradition. Employing a modular approach to composition, Kohlstedt blends synthesizers, electronics, and piano, reassembling his pieces anew for each performance, responding to the unique atmospheres of spaces and audiences, and allowing form to evolve through play. His artistic output is as diverse as his methods: it includes eight studio albums, scores for over a dozen films, collaborations ranging from the Gewandhaus Choir Leipzig to avant-pop artist Sudan Archives, and even a reforestation project in Thuringia. Following his sold-out concert in 2023, Kohlstedt will return to Kampnagel to close the season, offering another glimpse into his ever-expanding creative universe.