Saar Berger
French Horn
Saar Berger is a highly regarded horn soloist, chamber musician, and teacher known for his interpretive depth, commitment to contemporary music, and contributions to expanding the horn repertoire.
Celebrated for his artistry, technical command, and dedication to forward‑looking performance,
he continues to inspire audiences and young musicians alike while shaping the future of contemporary horn performance.
Originally from Israel, Berger trained at the Rubin Academy of Music in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem before continuing his studies in Germany with distinguished teachers including Marie‑Luise Neunecker, Erich Penzel, and Esa Tapani.
Berger served as a member of the internationally celebrated Ensemble Modern from 2007 until 2024, where he was featured in numerous world premieres and performances of new works by leading contemporary composers. His collaborations with composers have significantly enriched the horn literature with solo pieces, concertos, and chamber music written specifically for him.
As a recording artist, Berger has released ambitious projects including the double album Travelling Pieces (2014), a solo portrait featuring 17 world premieres, Call, Studies & Games with the Ensemble Modern Brass Trio (2017), and Sonorous (2018). He also produced Horn around the world (2020), a video‑based exploration of contemporary horn repertoire.
Since 2017, Berger has taught at the Lucerne Festival Academy, and in 2019 he was appointed Professor of Horn at the State University of Music in Trossingen, where he leads the horn studio and co‑directs the Positively Brass & Percussion Institute. He regularly gives masterclasses and appears at festivals and workshops internationally.
