Laura van der Heijden Concerts

Experience Laura van der Heijden

Laura van der Heijden is a Dutch-British cellist rapidly gaining international recognition for her deeply expressive and technically assured performances. Born in 1998, she began cello studies at age five and quickly distinguished herself, winning the prestigious International Cello Competition Pablo Casals in 2019 – the competition’s youngest ever winner.

Van der Heijden's repertoire spans a wide range, from Bach’s solo suites to contemporary works, but she is particularly noted for her interpretations of Romantic composers like Dvořák and Schumann. Her playing style is characterized by a rich tone, nuanced phrasing, and emotional intensity.

She records exclusively for Challenge Classics, releasing critically acclaimed albums including her debut featuring the Elgar Cello Concerto with the Orchestra of the Swan (2021) which garnered widespread praise. Further recordings include works by Brahms and a highly lauded disc of Schubert's *Arpeggione* Sonata. Van der Heijden performs regularly as a soloist with major orchestras worldwide and is a dedicated chamber musician, collaborating with leading artists. She studied at the Royal College of Music with Colin Lawson.