Dr. Karl Knapp is a dynamic cellist, university professor, and dedicated Suzuki educator, recognized for his artistry as both a performer and teacher. His playing has been featured on the Navona Records label with Transparent Boundaries, a collaboration with his wife, soprano Jamie-Rose Guarrine. Committed to expanding the repertoire for soprano and cello, they are currently working on a second album, set for release in the winter of 2025, commissioning new works for the duo.

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Knapp holds both a master’s and doctoral degree in cello performance, having studied cello with Parry Karp and receiving chamber music mentorship from the Pro Arte String Quartet. His dedication to music education extends to Suzuki pedagogy, where he has completed teacher training through Book 10 under the guidance of Barbara Wampner, Alice-Ann O’Neil, Nancy Hair, Pam Devenport, and Blake Brasch.

An active and versatile performer, Knapp serves as principal cellist of the New England Repertory Orchestra (NERO) and is a member of both the Wistaria and Cushman String Quartets. He also brings a fresh approach to cello performance as a member of 1200 Horsehairs: A Band of Cellos, a group that explores the instrument’s full expressive range. Additionally, he toured nationally as a cellist for Bernstein’s Wonderful Town.

In addition to his performing career, Knapp is a dedicated educator, serving on the cello faculty at Amherst College and Smith College while also maintaining a thriving private studio of pre-college students. He previously served as professor of cello at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and has held cello positions with the Fairbanks Symphony, Juneau Symphony, and Madison Symphony Orchestra. His orchestral experience also includes performances with the Minnesota Orchestra and the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra.

Beyond music, Knapp enjoys biking on trails and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.