Stefan Kartman is a renowned cellist and professor of music at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Born in 1963 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Kartman began his musical journey at the age of six when he started playing the cello. He was inspired by his father, who was a violinist and conductor, and his mother, who was a pianist. Kartman's parents recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Kartman received his Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he studied with Parry Karp. He then went on to earn his Master of Music degree from the Juilliard School, where he studied with Harvey Shapiro. Kartman continued his studies at the University of Southern California, where he earned his Doctor of Musical Arts degree under the tutelage of Ronald Leonard. Throughout his career, Kartman has performed as a soloist and chamber musician in numerous concerts and festivals around the world. He has collaborated with many renowned musicians, including pianist Menahem Pressler, violinist Midori, and cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Kartman has also performed with many orchestras, including the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra, and the New World Symphony. One of the highlights of Kartman's career was his performance of the complete Bach Suites for Unaccompanied Cello at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music in 2000. The performance was a monumental achievement, as it is considered one of the most challenging works for a cellist to perform. Kartman's interpretation of the suites was praised for its technical precision and emotional depth. Kartman has also been recognized for his teaching abilities. He has been a professor of music at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee since 1990 and has taught many successful cellists, including members of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Kartman's teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of developing a strong technical foundation while also nurturing the student's musical expression. In addition to his teaching and performing career, Kartman has also been involved in many music organizations. He is a member of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and has served on the board of directors for the Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra. Kartman is also a founding member of the Frankly Music chamber music series, which brings together musicians from around the world to perform in Milwaukee. Kartman has received many awards and honors throughout his career. In 1995, he was awarded the Wisconsin Arts Board Fellowship for Music Composition. He was also a finalist in the Naumburg International Cello Competition in 1987 and the Gaspar Cassado International Cello Competition in 1986. In conclusion, Stefan Kartman is a highly accomplished cellist and professor of music who has made significant contributions to the classical music world. His performances have been praised for their technical precision and emotional depth, and his teaching philosophy has inspired many successful cellists. Kartman's dedication to music has earned him numerous awards and honors, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.

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