cellist
Cellist & Educator
Joanna Gutowska is a Polish cellist, educator, and counsellor in training whose work bridges contemporary performance, research, and wellbeing in the classical music industry. Based in London, she studied at the Royal Academy of Music, where she developed a strong interest in chamber music and modern composition. Her artistic practice explores the sonic possibilities of the cello, combining traditional performance with experimental techniques and electronics.
Gutowska has performed internationally as a soloist and chamber musician across Europe, appearing in countries including Germany, Austria, Denmark, Italy, and Poland. Alongside her performing career, she has pursued academic research, completing doctoral studies at the Krzysztof Penderecki Academy of Music in Kraków. Her research focused on the cello works of Kaija Saariaho and their distinctive sound world.
This research led to her debut album, Saariaho: Works for Cello, which was nominated for the International Classical Music Awards in the Contemporary Music category. The recording presents interpretations of Saariaho’s works for cello, including layered recordings of multiple cello parts performed by Gutowska. She has since released additional recordings, including Bucoliques and the single Light and Matter, continuing her exploration of contemporary repertoire.
In addition to performing and recording, Gutowska is an active educator and a counsellor in training. She is particularly interested in integrating mental health awareness and wellbeing practices into the classical music profession, supporting musicians in navigating the psychological demands of performance and creative careers.
Through her performances, recordings, teaching, and developing counselling practice, Joanna Gutowska works to expand both the expressive possibilities of the cello and the conversation around wellbeing within the classical music community.
Joanna Gutowska is a dedicated cellist and educator who works with students of all ages and levels, fostering both technical development and individual musical expression. Her teaching is tailored to each student, with the aim of nurturing confidence, creativity, and a genuine connection to music.
For beginners, Joanna focuses on building a strong technical foundation from the very first lesson while inspiring a lasting joy for music-making. With more advanced students, she works on refining technique and exploring a diverse and challenging repertoire, supporting each individual in developing their own unique musical voice. Her lessons also incorporate elements of music theory and history, reflecting her belief in a well-rounded musical education.
Her students have gone on to achieve significant success, including gaining places at leading institutions such as the Royal Academy of Music, Royal College of Music, and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. Many have also been awarded music scholarships and received prizes in national and international competitions.
Lessons take place weekly at her home in Highgate, at the student’s home, or online (for advanced students). For new enquiries, please get in touch directly.
In the performing arts we often talk about stage presence — how performers manage pressure, expectations, and the feeling of being seen.
But something interesting happens when we look outside the concert hall: many people experience similar pressures in everyday life. We all navigate expectations, roles, and situations where we feel we need to “hold things together.”
Mind For Stage translates the lessons of performance into everyday life — helping performers and non-performers alike navigate pressure, expectations, and confidence in any role they play.
Through the Mind For Stage project, Joanna is developing a space to share ideas, reflections, and practical insights around the mental and emotional aspects of performing.
She is currently in the process of obtaining counselling qualification, and Mind For Stage reflects the growing experience and expertise in this area.
More details coming soon.
Bukolika Piano Trio is a chamber ensemble dedicated to exploring the rich and diverse repertoire for piano trio while bringing fresh perspectives to both classical and contemporary works. Formed in 2015, the trio has worked consistently to establish itself on the professional chamber music scene, developing a distinctive artistic voice based on close collaboration and expressive musical dialogue.
Early in its career, the ensemble achieved notable recognition by reaching the finals of the St Martin-in-the-Fields Chamber Music Competition and being selected for the St John's Smith Square Young Artists Scheme. These opportunities helped launch the trio’s presence on the UK concert platform.
Bukolika Piano Trio has performed in a variety of prominent venues and series, with engagements including appearances at Wigmore Hall and St John's Smith Square. The ensemble has also appeared on BBC Radio 3 In Tune, performing regularly as guests on the programme and sharing their work with a wider broadcast audience.
The trio has performed across Europe in countries including Poland, Germany, Austria, Denmark, and the United Kingdom. Their repertoire combines core piano trio works with lesser-known and contemporary compositions, reflecting the ensemble’s commitment to expanding the chamber music canon.
Bukolika Piano Trio has also been active in recording projects, including the album Bucoliques. Through both live performance and recording, the trio aims to create immersive musical experiences that celebrate the collaborative spirit at the heart of chamber music.