The memories of Boris Pergamenschikow are still strong 20 years after his death on April 30, 2004. A group of musicians sits at a kitchen table in Prenzlauer Berg reminiscing about the cellist who was curious, attentive, humorous, noble, educated, and a gifted teacher. They are excited about the upcoming memorial concert “In Memoriam Boris Pergamenschikow” at the Konzerthaus am Gendarmenmarkt on April 30th at 8 p.m. The concert will feature performances by friends and students of Pergamenschikow.
Pergamenschikow emigrated from Russia in 1977 and settled in Cologne before becoming a professor at the “Hanns Eisler” University in Berlin in 1998. He was known for his teaching style, which focused on individual students, nurturing their personalities. Claudio Bohorquez, one of his former students, reflects on his lessons and the impact Pergamenschikow had on him and other musicians.
Christian Tetzlaff, another musician who worked closely with Pergamenschikow, describes him as a father figure and a mentor who valued the importance of understanding the context in which music was created. Andrea von Bernstorff, a friend and organizer of the memorial concert, recalls Pergamenschikow’s intellectual approach to music and his dedication to chamber music.
The concert will feature compositions by various composers, including pieces by Pergamenschikow’s friends Mauricio Kagel and Krzysztof Penderecki. Students of Pergamenschikow, such as Claudio Bohorquez and Nicolas Altstaedt, will also perform, highlighting the legacy of the renowned cellist. The evening promises to be a touching tribute to a great musician and teacher whose influence is still felt in the music world.