Dunja Gavrilovic
About
I am Dunja, a professional cellist with an extensive background in solo, chamber, and orchestral performance. I began my musical education in Belgrade before continuing my studies at Anton Bruckner University in Linz, specializing in both modern and baroque cello under distinguished professors.
As a soloist, I have performed with orchestras across Europe, including Haydn’s Cello Concerto in D major and Dvořák’s Cello Concerto in B minor in Trieste and a soloist role in Vivaldi’s Concerto RV 580 on tour with Camerata Strumentale Italiana in the Baltic region. My experience spans performances in Austria, Germany, Italy, Serbia, Croatia, Greece, Russia, Slovenia, the Czech Republic,Latvia,Lithuania, Estonia.
In addition to my solo career, I am a passionate chamber musician and orchestral performer.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with and having masterclasses from renowned musicians such as Kian Soltani, Julia Hagen, Xenia Jankovic, Tamas Varga, Stefan Popov, Igor Gavrysh, and Matthias Bartolomey.
Beyond performing, I am deeply committed to music education, aiming to inspire and guide students in their artistic development.
Teaching Style
I am deeply passionate about the health and well-being of musicians, and I believe that good technique is the foundation of both artistic freedom and injury prevention. Playing the cello should feel natural and effortless, allowing for both technical mastery and expressive depth without unnecessary tension or strain.
In my teaching, I focus on:
• Efficient and relaxed technique – using natural body mechanics to produce a resonant sound while avoiding tension
• Injury prevention – maintaining good posture, balanced movement, and sustainable playing habits for long-term health
• Sustainable practice methods – helping students structure their practice to develop endurance and prevent overuse injuries
• Body awareness – incorporating breathing, balance, and relaxation techniques to enhance both control and expression
Beyond technical health, I also emphasize understanding musical styles. Different composers require different approaches, and I guide my students in developing a refined sense of stylistic awareness and tasteful expression.
• Historical context – learning how to interpret different periods and styles, from Baroque articulation to Romantic phrasing
• Sound and character – shaping tone and dynamics to reflect the unique voice of each composer
• Expressive freedom – balancing technical discipline with spontaneity and personal interpretation
