cellist
Cellist, Educator & Counsellor-in-Training | Supporting Mental Health & Inclusion in the Performing Arts
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.
My aim when teaching beginners, across all the music subjects I offer, is to spark a genuine joy for music-making. From the very first lesson, I focus on building a solid technical foundation that will allow you - or your child - to progress confidently and correctly.
For more advanced students, my teaching emphasizes refining technique and exploring a diverse and challenging repertoire, helping each student develop their unique musical voice.
I also incorporate basic music theory and music history into my lessons, as I firmly believe that a well-rounded musical education enriches both understanding and performance.
For new enquiries please contact me directly.My lessons take place ones a week in my home in Highgate, student's home or online (for advanced students).
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.
Alongside my work as a cellist and educator, I am currently training as an integrative counsellor, with a growing focus on mental health and wellbeing within high-performance environments. I work with organisations such as Mind and other charitable initiatives, supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds.
My particular interest lies in performance-related anxiety—whether on stage, in professional settings, or in everyday life. I aim to integrate counselling with my musical practice, creating spaces where individuals can explore both excellence and wellbeing in a balanced, sustainable way.
Through this work, I hope to support people in developing greater self-awareness, resilience, and a healthier relationship with performance in all its forms.