A professor at Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music, Carolyn Huebl plays violin with so much intimacy and emotion that we often feel uncomfortable at her concerts, as if we’re eavesdropping on a deeply personal conversation. Huebl’s concerts are always noteworthy, but this year they were also groundbreaking and important. In February, she joined pianist Mark Wait to present the world premiere of composer Michael Hersch’s Zwischen Leben und Tod (Between Life and Death), an evening-length work that leaves no emotional stone unturned. As if learning that fiendishly difficult new music wasn’t enough, Huebl also spent the year performing the complete Mozart’s violin sonatas with pianist Craig Nies. Huebl played every note with color and sensitivity, creating a new gold standard for instrumental excellence in Nashville.
Best Classical Musician
Carolyn Huebl
Photo: Jim McGuire
