David Bergmüller

KNOW THYSELF – Rediscovering the Lute 

With his latest project, Know Thyself, David Bergmüller places the lute—one of the most  emblematic instruments of early music—into a completely new context, redefining its identity. By  synthesizing acoustic and electronic music, as well as early and contemporary compositions, the  lute becomes the centerpiece of a musical universe where past and future seamlessly merge. 

The program is exclusively built on the soundscape of the lute: all compositions were developed  using lute instruments, and every sample originates from the instrument itself. The lute serves not  only as a source of inspiration but also as the central sound generator, showcasing its sonic  versatility and timeless relevance. 

Know Thyself completes a trilogy that explores the facets and potential of the lute in a uniquely  illuminating way: 

1. Rhétorique du Silence (2023): A solo lute album that focuses on early music and explores  the lute in its classical repertoire. 
2. Wirbel (2023): A collaboration with Janus Rasmussen that brings the lute into electronic  soundscapes, emphasizing its modern dimensions. 

This new project unites elements from the two preceding works, bridging acoustic and electronic  sound design as well as early and contemporary music. The lute is presented as a timeless  instrument—a medium not only steeped in history but also capable of thriving in experimental,  cutting-edge soundscapes. 

With the release of the album Know Thyself in fall 2025 on Neue Meister (a Berlin Classics sub label), listeners are invited to rediscover the lute as a versatile and forward-looking instrument.  David Bergmüller demonstrates how an ostensibly ancient instrument can transcend the  boundaries of musical genres while embodying timeless depth and presence. 

This project is more than just a concert—it is an invitation to reflect on tradition, innovation, and the  elements that connect music across centuries. Know Thyself challenges the familiar and inspires  audiences to experience the bond between past and present in a new light. 

David Bergmüller Lutes & Synth 

Setlist: 

All compositions by David Bergmüller, except #2 and #6 

1. Strumm Strumm 
2. Suite pour la luth (from Rhétorique du Silence) 

(composed by E. Gaultier, Ch. Mouton, F. Dufault) 

3. Ground 
4. Uppon 
5. Cicades 
6. In Nomine (composed by Picforth, arranged by D. Bergmüller) 
7. Rains 
8. Napoli Sketch I 
9. Napoli Sketch VII 
10. Encore: Kunde feat. Janus Rasmussen