Nicolai Gerassimez is a German classical percussionist who has gained international recognition for his virtuosic performances and innovative approach to percussion music. Born on May 17, 1988, in Essen, Germany, Gerassimez grew up in a family of musicians and began playing the drums at a young age. He later discovered his passion for classical percussion and went on to study at the Hochschule für Musik und Tanz Köln and the Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler Berlin. Gerassimez's talent and dedication to his craft quickly became apparent, and he began to make a name for himself in the classical music world. In 2010, he won first prize at the International Percussion Competition Luxembourg, and in 2011, he was awarded the prestigious German Music Competition prize. These early successes paved the way for a career that would see Gerassimez perform at some of the world's most renowned concert halls and festivals. One of Gerassimez's most notable performances took place in 2014, when he premiered the percussion concerto "Asventuras" by German composer Tobias Broström with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. The piece, which was written specifically for Gerassimez, showcases his incredible technical skill and musicality, and has since become a staple of his repertoire. Gerassimez has also performed with other leading orchestras, including the Munich Philharmonic, the NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchestra, and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. In addition to his work as a soloist, Gerassimez is also a sought-after chamber musician. He has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including pianist Alice Sara Ott, cellist Daniel Müller-Schott, and the Kuss Quartet. Together with his brother, pianist Alexej Gerassimez, he has formed the Gerassimez Duo, which has released several critically acclaimed albums and performed at major festivals such as the Schleswig-Holstein Musik Festival and the Rheingau Musik Festival. Gerassimez's innovative approach to percussion music has also earned him recognition. He is known for his use of unconventional instruments, such as the waterphone and the hang drum, and his incorporation of electronic elements into his performances. In 2017, he released his debut solo album, "Talking Drums," which features a mix of classical and contemporary works and showcases his versatility as a percussionist. Throughout his career, Gerassimez has received numerous awards and accolades. In addition to his early competition wins, he has been honored with the Echo Klassik award, the Opus Klassik award, and the WDR Jazz Prize. He has also been named a "Rising Star" by the European Concert Hall Organisation, which has led to performances at some of Europe's most prestigious venues. Despite his many achievements, Gerassimez remains dedicated to his craft and continues to push the boundaries of percussion music. He is known for his intense focus and attention to detail, and his performances are characterized by their energy, passion, and technical precision. With his talent and dedication, Nicolai Gerassimez has established himself as one of the most exciting and innovative percussionists of his generation.

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