The NEC alumnus and principal cello of the Boston Symphony Orchestra will begin his role in autumn 2022
French cellist Blaise Déjardin will begin teaching at the New England Conservatory (NEC) at the start of the new academic year in September. He will work as a regular guest artist and masterclass instructor.
Déjardin graduated from NEC with a master of music and a graduate diploma, studying with Laurence Lesser. He was appointed principal cello of the Boston Symphony Orchestra in 2018 under the direction of Andris Nelsons in spring 2018, having joined the BSO’s cello section in 2008. He also studied at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique of Paris, graduating with a first prize with highest honours.
Déjardin comments, ’I am thrilled to be joining the wonderful NEC faculty in fall 2022. It feels very special to return to my alma mater and to be able to give back to an institution which has given me so much as a young artist. I look forward to working with the students, teachers, and staff to make our world a little more beautiful every day through music.’
Benjamin Sosland, provost and dean, welcomed Déjardin to the faculty, ’There is always a special pleasure in welcoming an alumnus back ”home” to join the faculty, and I can scarcely think of a nicer homecoming than this one. Blaise is a musician of consummate skill and exceptional artistry, and an exemplar and beneficiary of the legendary cello teaching that is a hallmark of NEC.’
Déjardin has performed as soloist with orchestra around the world, making his solo debut at the age of 14 at the Corum in Montpellier, France, performing Haydn Cello Concerto in C major. His competition successes include first prize at the Maurice Gendron International Cello Competition and 4th prize at the 6th Adam International Cello Competition in New Zealand, where he was the youngest prize winner.
A dedicated chamber musician, he spent two summers at Ravinia’s Steans Institute and has been a member of the Boston Symphony Chamber Players since 2018. Previously, Déjardin was a member of the European Union Youth Orchestra and the Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester. He was also a founding member of A Far Cry chamber ensemble and the Boston Cello Quartet.
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