Anja Lechner

Cellist Anja Lechner is known for her boundary-crossing musical exploration, particularly in the realm of tango music, constantly seeking new works that challenge traditional genre distinctions. Born in Kassel, West Germany, in 1961, Lechner studied under renowned cellists Heinrich Schiff and János Starker. She gained recognition for her work with the Rosamunde Quartet, which delved into a diverse repertoire ranging from Haydn and Shostakovich to Ukrainian composer Valentin Silvestrov. Lechner has made significant contributions to the ECM label, with notable recordings such as Leggiero, Pesante and collaborations with artists like Dino Saluzzi and François Couturier.

Lechner's discography reflects her involvement in chamber groups performing contemporary and tango music, showcasing her interest in experimentation while steering clear of jazz influences within ECM's roster. Notable projects include Ojos Negros with the Rosamunde Quartet and collaborations with artists like Agnès Vesterman and Pablo Márquez. In 2024, Lechner released the solo album Bach, Abel, Hume, adding to her diverse body of work that continues to push the boundaries of classical music.