Tobias Koch (pianist)

Tobias Koch (born 1968) is a German pianist specializing in historical performance practice. He is known for his expertise in playing on historical keyboard instruments, including fortepianos, harpsichords, and clavichords, from the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Koch has performed internationally as a soloist and chamber musician, appearing at major festivals and concert halls. He has collaborated with numerous renowned musicians and ensembles. His repertoire spans a wide range of composers, including Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Chopin, and Schumann, with a particular focus on interpreting their works in a historically informed manner.

Koch's approach to performance emphasizes the importance of understanding the original context of the music, including the instruments available to the composer, the performance conventions of the time, and the social and cultural milieu in which the music was created. He often uses original or replica instruments to recreate the sound world that the composer would have known.

He has made numerous recordings on various labels, showcasing his mastery of historical keyboard instruments. These recordings have been praised for their authenticity, musicality, and insightful interpretations. He also teaches masterclasses and workshops on historical performance practice, sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring musicians. Koch actively researches historical keyboard instruments and performance techniques, contributing to the ongoing scholarship in the field of early music.