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Stjepan Hauser (Croatian pronunciation:[stjêpaːnxǎuser]; born 15 June 1986),[1] known professionally as HAUSER, is a Croatian cellist, and he also sings in concert. He was a member of 2CELLOS, along with his friend Luka Šulić, and continues to perform solo.
Hauser was born in Pula, Croatia, into a musical family, where he began his musical education.[2] His mother plays percussion. His sister is a journalist in Pula.
In October 2006, Hauser was chosen to perform at the gala at Palazzo Vecchio in Florence for Mstislav Rostropovich.[6][7] Following this appearance, Hauser was invited to perform in numerous festivals in Europe. At the International Holland Music Sessions 2009, he was chosen to participate in the "New Masters on Tour" concert series, presenting young artists in prestigious concert venues all over the continent.[8]
In December 2007, Hauser played the Kol Nidre with the Metropolitan Sinfonia at a Gala Tribute Concert dedicated to Mstislav Rostropovich.[9] Subsequently, Hauser went on to perform and record as a solo artist including his recording of British composer Christopher Ball's First Concerto for Cello, written by the composer specifically for him. The album, Christopher Ball: Music for Cello, was recorded at the first live performance of the concerto in 2010, and features former Greenwich Trio member, Yoko Misumi, on piano.
In 2020 September 10: "Hauser – 2 cellos live in Herodion Athens Greece (concert).
On 11 June 2009, Hauser launched his channel on YouTube, which had since reached over 970 million views by June 2024.[10] In January 2011, Hauser, along with friend and fellow cellist Luka Šulić, performed a cover of Michael Jackson's "Smooth Criminal" which was played solely on cello. In just a few days, the music video became a YouTubesensation.[11][12][13]
The album Hauser Classic was released on 7 February 2020, in which he plays alongside the London Symphony Orchestra. The album was produced by Nick Patrick.[14]
During the COVID-19 quarantine, unable to tour in support of his solo album, Hauser released three performances via live streaming. The first, Hauser: Alone Together, released on 27 April 2020 was performed at the Arena Pula, in Stjepan's hometown of Pula, Croatia, on the Istrian peninsula. The second, also titled Hauser: Alone Together, was performed at Krka National Park, at the Krka Waterfalls in central Croatia. The second video was released on 15 June 2020, to celebrate the artist's 34th birthday. The third, again titled Hauser: Alone Together, was recorded at Fort Lovrijenac in Dubrovnik, Croatia, recognisable to many fans from the HBO series, Game of Thrones. A special 2 disc edition of Hauser Classic is scheduled for October 2020 release. It includes a DVD of the three Hauser: Alone Together videos.
The album Hauser plays Morricone premiered on YouTube on 27 October 2020.[15]
In early 2011, Hauser recorded an album with fellow Croatian Damir Urban. The album, the self-titled Urban and Hauser, was released in the summer of 2011. Also in the spring of 2011, he recorded an album with Croatian pop star Oliver Dragojević. The album, Noć nek' tiho svira, was released in October 2011. Also in 2011, they performed together in Pula. That fall, along with fellow 2CELLOS member Luka Šulić, he began touring as a member of the Elton John band. Since then, he has performed with the band hundreds of times, on tour all around the world, and in Las Vegas, Nevada, in the Million Dollar Piano concert performance at the Coliseum at Caesar's Palace. In November 2011, he released another classical album: Brahms, Beethoven & Bruch for Clarinet, Cello & Piano, again with Ms. Misumi, and clarinettist Leslie Craven.
In 2018 and 2019, Hauser released a series of videos with Uzbek-American pianist Lola Astanova on social media.
In January 2012, they appeared as the special musical guests on Fox's hit TV series Glee where they performed "Smooth Criminal" in the Michael Jackson tribute episode. This was the first time that an instrumental duo had performed on the show in this guest spot.[18] 2CELLOS' arrangement of the song, which featured actors Grant Gustin and Naya Rivera, debuted at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 Digital Songs Chart and landed their debut album in the Top 100.[19]
In late 2012 and early 2013, a second 2CELLOS album, In2ition, was released.
After the release of the second album, Hauser spent several years touring, either as a member of 2CELLOS or with Elton John. A third album was released in early 2015 called Celloverse, just prior to a 38-city US tour.
From 2014 through 2016, Hauser performed with Oliver Dragojević on at least five occasions, including the 2014 Split Festival, with Luka Šulić appearing briefly to join them, in free concerts in Rakalj and on Korčula, also in 2014, and as a guest at 2CELLOS' 5th anniversary free concert in Tomislav Square in Zagreb in 2016. His final performance in Las Vegas with Elton John was in October 2015.
2CELLOS' fourth album, Score, a collection of movie music, was recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra and released in 2017. The first live performance was held in December 2016, at the Sydney (Australia) Opera House and is available on DVD. 2CELLOS' fifth album, Let There Be Cello, was released in 2018.
After 2CELLOS' 2019 US tour, the duo took a one-year break, to work on solo classical albums for Sony Music and to tour individually.
The 2022 Dedicated World Tour was 2CELLOS' farewell tour.
Hauser is laureate of international competitions and awards such as the PLG Young Artists Auditions 2009, the J & A Beare Solo Bach Competition 2009, NYOS Staffa Award 2009, the Philharmonia Orchestra – Martin Musical Scholarship Fund 2009 and 2008, the Eastbourne Symphony Orchestra Young Soloist Competition 2009 and 2007, the Tunbridge Wells International Young Concert Artists Competition 2008 and 2006, the Computers in Personnel International Concerto Competition 2008, the Frankopan Fund Award 2006, and the MBF Music Education Award 2006 and 2005. He has also won international cello competitions and awards such as the Adam International Cello Festival and Competition in New Zealand 2009, and the VTB Capital Prize for Young Cellists 2009. Altogether, Hauser collected a total of 21 first prizes at national and international competitions and, as a consequence, he was invited to perform twice on Gala concerts for HRH Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace and St. James's Palace.
In May 2012, Hauser won four Porin awards, two with Luka Šulić (2Cellos), and the other two for his collaboration with Damir Urban on their album Urban & Hauser.[20]
Hauser subsequently won an additional Porin award, for Best Video Release, along with Luka Šulić (2CELLOS) and Dušan Kranjc (drummer) for their Arena Zagreb DVD.
Stjepan Hauser, known professionally as HAUSER, is a Croatian cellist born on 15 June 1986 in Pula into a musical family, where he began playing the cello at age eight after being inspired by hearing the instrument on the radio.[1][2] He pursued rigorous classical training, studying at secondary schools in Rijeka and Zagreb before completing his undergraduate degree at Trinity College of Music in London under Natalia Pavlutskaya, and further honing his skills at conservatories in Manchester and Boston.[1][3]Hauser's career gained momentum through his exceptional talent, earning him 21 first prizes in national and international competitions, including the VTB Capital Prize for Young Cellists in 2009, and making him the last student to perform with legendary cellist Mstislav Rostropovich.[3][2] He co-founded the globally acclaimed duo 2Cellos with fellow cellist Luka Šulić in 2011, captivating audiences with innovative cello arrangements of rock, pop, and classical pieces, leading to sold-out arena tours, performances at venues like the Royal Albert Hall and Madison Square Garden, and collaborations with artists such as Elton John, U2, Andrea Bocelli, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.[4][2]Transitioning to a solo career in 2017, Hauser has released chart-topping albums like HAUSER – CLASSIC (2020), which debuted at #1 on the Billboard Classical Albums chart and features orchestral interpretations of works by composers including Bach, Chopin, and Tchaikovsky alongside the London Symphony Orchestra, as well as recent albums including Classic II (2024) and Cinema (2025).[4][2][5] His performances have reached dignitaries including Pope Francis, U.S. presidents, Prince Charles, and Queen Elizabeth II, while his digital presence boasts over 2 billion audio streams and 4 billion video views (as of 2025), establishing him as a bridge between classical traditions and contemporary music.[4][6] Beyond music, Hauser has launched HAUSER Wines and the HAUSER Music Foundation to support young musicians.[4]
Early life and education
Birth and family background
Stjepan Hauser was born on 15 June 1986 in Pula, Croatia, at the time part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.[1]He grew up in a musical family with no prominent professional lineage in the field, but a supportive home environment that valued the arts. His mother played percussion, fostering an early appreciation for music, while his parents encouraged creative expression amid everyday life.[7]Hauser's early childhood unfolded in Pula, a coastal city on the Adriatic Sea, where he was exposed to the region's rich cultural influences, including local classical music scenes shaped by Mediterranean traditions and historical ties to European heritage. Hauser later attended secondary school in Rijeka, another Adriatic port city, immersing him further in Croatia's vibrant artistic community.[1]His initial interest in the cello sparked at a young age when he heard the instrument's warm, evocative sound on the radio, particularly moved by Camille Saint-Saëns's "The Swan" from The Carnival of the Animals. This profound encounter, described as life-changing, prompted his mother to purchase a cello and arrange lessons, leading him to begin formal study at age 8.[7][1]
Musical training and influences
Hauser began his musical journey with the cello at the age of eight in his hometown of Pula, Croatia, where his mother arranged initial lessons with a local teacher after he expressed interest upon hearing the instrument on the radio.[1] He continued his early training in Rijeka, completing secondary school there while honing his skills under local instructors, which laid the groundwork for his technical proficiency. He subsequently studied in Zagreb.[1]In 2005, at the age of nineteen, Hauser moved to London to pursue advanced studies at the Trinity College of Music (now Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance), where he completed his undergraduate degree from 2005 to 2009 under the tutelage of Natalia Pavlutskaya, focusing on virtuosic repertoire and chamber music performance.[1] He supplemented his formal education with masterclasses from esteemed cellists, including Mstislav Rostropovich during one of the maestro's final public sessions in Florence.[8] Following his time in London, Hauser undertook postgraduate studies at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester as a Dorothy Stone Scholar, working with Ralph Kirshbaum to refine his soloistic approach and orchestral preparation. He also pursued postgraduate studies with Bernard Greenhouse in Boston.[9] During these years, he earned early recognition through scholarships and competitions, amassing 21 first prizes in national and international events that affirmed his rising talent.[4]Hauser's artistic influences drew from both classical giants and contemporary icons, blending rigorous tradition with innovative flair. He has cited Mstislav Rostropovich as a pivotal figure for his unparalleled emotional depth and charisma, which inspired Hauser's own passionate interpretations, while Jacqueline du Pré's natural expressiveness captivated him during his high school years.[10] Yo-Yo Ma's versatility across genres further shaped Hauser's adaptability, encouraging him to explore beyond classical boundaries. Additionally, rock musicians like David Bowie influenced his crossover sensibilities, fueling ideas for fusing cello with popular music forms that would later define his career trajectory.[1] These elements collectively built Hauser's foundation as a cellist capable of bridging classical mastery with broad accessibility.
Early career
Initial performances and competitions
Hauser began cello studies at age eight in his hometown of Pula, Croatia, and soon gave early public performances.[1] This early exposure marked the start of a trajectory focused on classical repertoire, where he quickly demonstrated prodigious talent through solo and orchestral engagements. By his late teens, he was performing as a soloist with major ensembles, building a reputation for technical precision and emotional depth in works by composers such as Bach, Elgar, and Dvořák.[1]His competitive successes further solidified his classical credentials. Overall, Hauser amassed 21 first prizes across national and international contests during his formative years, which opened doors to invitations for high-profile recitals and concerto appearances.[4] These achievements, earned while studying at institutions like the University of Zagreb and Trinity College of Music in London under mentors such as Natalia Pavlutskaya, underscored his dedication to the instrument's traditional demands.[1]In his early twenties, Hauser had already performed in over 40 countries, debuting at iconic venues including London's Royal Albert Hall and Wigmore Hall.[11] These global engagements highlighted his growing prominence as a solo artist, often featuring collaborations with orchestras that emphasized the cello's lyrical range. However, Hauser later reflected on the challenges of this phase, noting that he himself felt "narrow-minded" and stuck in his focus on classical training, which clashed with his emerging interest in broader musical expressions.[1] This tension between preserving classical purity and exploring crossover elements tested his artistic evolution, yet it laid the groundwork for his versatile career.[3]
Greenwich Trio
The Greenwich Trio was formed in 2006 in London by three graduates of Trinity College of Music: Slovenian violinist Lana Trotovšek, Croatian cellist Stjepan Hauser, and Japanese pianist Yoko Misumi.[12] The ensemble established itself as a dynamic chamber group, emphasizing precise and expressive interpretations of the piano trio repertoire. Their early activities centered on building a strong collaborative foundation, with Hauser contributing his technical prowess on cello to the trio's cohesive sound.[13]The trio's repertoire primarily drew from the classical and Romantic eras, showcasing works that highlighted interplay among the instruments. Notable performances included Beethoven's Piano Trio No. 3 in E-flat major, Op. 70 No. 2 ("Ghost"), and Mendelssohn's Piano Trio No. 2 in C minor, Op. 66, which they recorded for Meridian Records in 2008.[14] These selections allowed the group to explore emotional depth and structural elegance, with festivals such as the Rheingau Musik Festival in Germany, the Santander International Festival in Spain, the Cheltenham Music Festival and Bath International Festival in the UK, and the Ljubljana Festival in Slovenia featuring their programs.[12] The trio made significant debuts, including at London's Kings Place during its opening festival in 2008 and at Amsterdam's Concertgebouw in 2009, followed by tours across Europe that solidified their presence in the chamber music scene.[13][12]In terms of achievements, the Greenwich Trio secured a series of first prizes at international chamber music competitions in the United Kingdom, Belgium, and Italy shortly after formation.[13] They also received prestigious awards, including support from the Solti Foundation and the Tunnell Trust, which aided their professional development and international engagements.[12] A highlight was their top prize win at the Beethoven Society of Europe Intercollegiate Chamber Music Competition in 2010, where they performed Beethoven's Piano Trio No. 1 in E-flat major, Op. 1 No. 1, demonstrating their command of the composer's early chamber style.[15] These accomplishments, coupled with their recordings, marked the trio's role in Hauser's early professional growth, fostering his expertise in collaborative performance.
2CELLOS
Formation and rise to fame
Stjepan Hauser and Luka Šulić first met during their teenage years at a master class in Croatia, where they bonded over their shared passion for the cello.[16] Both classically trained musicians from the region, they maintained a friendship through their studies, with Hauser gaining chamber music experience as a member of the Greenwich Trio from 2006 to 2011.[12] In early 2011, while living in London as struggling young artists, the pair decided to collaborate on a bold cover of Michael Jackson's "Smooth Criminal," arranging and performing it on cellos in a self-produced video uploaded to YouTube in January.[17] The video quickly went viral, amassing over three million views in under two weeks and more than five million within a month, catapulting the duo to international attention.[18]Inspired by the overwhelming response, Šulić and Hauser formalized their partnership as 2CELLOS in 2011, focusing on innovative cello arrangements of rock and pop hits to bridge classical technique with contemporary energy.[16] Their breakthrough led to a recording contract with Sony Masterworks, announced on April 19, 2011, just months after the video's release. The duo's self-titled debut album, 2CELLOS, followed on July 19, 2011, featuring high-energy covers of songs by artists like Guns N' Roses, U2, and Michael Jackson, which showcased their virtuosic playing and rhythmic flair. Early media exposure amplified their rise, including a live performance of "Smooth Criminal" on The Ellen DeGeneres Show on April 25, 2011, which introduced their dynamic style to a broad American audience.[19]The duo's early successes extended to collaborations that highlighted their crossover appeal, such as their 2012 recording of AC/DC's "Highway to Hell" with guitarist Steve Vai on the follow-up album In2ition.[20] Building on this momentum, 2CELLOS launched their initial European tour in summer 2012, including high-profile appearances like joining Elton John at the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Concert in London on June 4.[21] These performances, blending precise classical execution with rock-infused intensity, marked the beginning of their global touring presence, with U.S. dates following in 2013 as their popularity continued to grow.[22]
Major tours, albums, and media appearances
Following their breakthrough with the viral cover of Michael Jackson's "Smooth Criminal," 2CELLOS released their self-titled debut album in 2011, featuring rock and pop covers arranged for cello, which topped the Billboard Classical Crossover Albums chart. Their second album, In2ition (2013), continued this style with covers including Elton John's "Oh Well," on which he provided guest vocals, and collaborations like "Clocks" with pianist Lang Lang. Celloverse (2015) marked an evolution, blending covers such as AC/DC's "Thunderstruck" with original compositions, including the duo's first self-written tracks. The 2017 album Score focused on cinematic arrangements of film scores from composers like Hans Zimmer and John Williams, while Let There Be Cello (2018) returned to high-energy rock covers. Their final duo release, the 10th-anniversary album Dedicated (2021, extended edition 2022), celebrated a decade of covers from artists like Guns N' Roses and Coldplay, showcasing their refined crossover sound.[23]Over their decade together, 2CELLOS embarked on more than 10 world tours, performing in over 40 countries and selling out venues from stadiums to symphony halls.[24] Notable highlights included opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers on their 2012 I'm with You tour, culminating in a joint performance of "Californication" at Zagreb's Hipodrom stadium before 40,000 fans.[25] They also supported Elton John on his 2011-2013 world tour across North America, Europe, and Asia, including shows at Madison Square Garden, and performed at prestigious events like the 2012 Queen's Diamond Jubilee concert at Buckingham Palace, the 2016 Rio Olympics, and the 2018 UEFA Champions League Final in Kyiv.[26][27]In media, 2CELLOS gained visibility through high-profile collaborations and appearances, including joint performances with Lang Lang on tracks like "Live and Let Die" from Celloverse.[28] They featured in films such as The Million Dollar Piano (2012), a concert film with Elton John, and contributed music to soundtracks including arrangements used in Runaways (2017). Television exposure included PBS specials like 2Cellos Live at the Sydney Opera House (2017), broadcast to millions, where they performed film themes with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, and 2Cellos Live at Arena Zagreb (2014) with the Zagreb Philharmonic.[29]The duo's output evolved from viral cover videos to a mature blend of interpretations and originals, amassing over 1 billion global streams and more than 1.3 billion YouTube views by 2022. By 2025, their content had amassed over 1.9 billion YouTube views and billions of streams worldwide.[23][30] This shift highlighted their innovation in classical crossover, influencing a new generation of musicians while maintaining broad appeal through dynamic live presentations.
Group hiatus and end
In 2021, after a decade of collaboration, 2CELLOS announced an indefinite hiatus, culminating in their final album Dedicated—a 10th-anniversary release issued in September 2021 with an extended edition featuring bonus tracks in February 2022—and a global farewell tour that wrapped up later that year.[31][23] The tour, titled the Final Farewell, began in March 2022 and included performances across the United States and Europe, serving as a celebratory send-off for their revolutionary blend of classical and popular music.[32]The decision to part ways was amicable, stemming primarily from each member's desire for personal growth and solo exploration, with Luka Šulić prioritizing time with his young family and shifting toward more traditional classical performances, while Stjepan Hauser embraced an expansive solo career in crossover music.[33][34] Extensive touring had taken a toll, but the duo emphasized ending on a high note to preserve their legacy.[32]2CELLOS left an indelible mark by pioneering the cello's role in pop and rock genres, elevating it from orchestral settings to high-energy arena spectacles and inspiring a new wave of instrumentalists to experiment beyond classical boundaries.[32] Their innovative arrangements amassed over 2.5 billion streams across platforms and routinely sold out major venues worldwide, solidifying the duo's status as trailblazers in instrumental music.Following the hiatus, Šulić and Hauser have maintained a cordial relationship while dedicating themselves to separate artistic paths.[35]
Solo career
Transition to solo work
While still a member of 2CELLOS, Stjepan Hauser began exploring solo performances in 2017, marking the initial phase of his independent artistic endeavors. His first major solo concert took place on October 13, 2017, at the Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall in Zagreb, Croatia, where he performed classical pieces with the Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra under conductor Elisabeth Fuchs.[36] This event featured guest artists including violinist Lana Trotovsek and highlighted Hauser's focus on romantic and lyrical cello interpretations, such as Albinoni's Adagio and Rachmaninoff's Vocalise.[37]Building on this momentum, Hauser organized the "HAUSER & Friends" gala concert on August 28, 2018, at the Arena Pula in his hometown of Pula, Croatia, drawing an audience of over 5,000.[38] The performance included collaborations with violinist Caroline Campbell, pianist Lola Astanova, and accordionist Ksenija Sidorova, blending classical staples like Dvořák's Song to the Moon with crossover arrangements, and emphasized Hauser's theatrical stage presence through dramatic lighting and emotional delivery.[39] These early events showcased his shift toward more intimate yet expansive solo expressions, distinct from the high-energy duo format of 2CELLOS.In tandem with these performances, Hauser adopted the professional moniker "HAUSER" to brand his solo identity, signaling a deliberate separation from his duo association. His first recording under this name arrived in October 2019 with an orchestral arrangement of Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake suite, produced by Nick Patrick and featuring the London Symphony Orchestra.[40] This release, accompanied by a music video filmed with ballerinas in Sanremo, Italy, underscored his vision of the cello as a versatile, emotive lead instrument in romantic classical repertoire. The following year, in February 2020, Hauser released his debut solo album Classic on Sony Classical, also with the London Symphony Orchestra, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Classical Albums chart and included arrangements of works by Bach, Saint-Saëns, and Massenet.[41]The conclusion of 2CELLOS's farewell tour in 2022 provided the catalyst for Hauser's full transition to solo work, allowing him to expand his performances to include vocal elements, such as self-accompanied singing in pieces like Vocalise, adding a layer of personal vulnerability to his theatrical style.[42] Early solo tours evolved from these foundational concerts in mid-sized venues like Lisinski Hall to larger arenas post-2022, with Hauser navigating the challenge of carving an individual persona beyond the duo's rock-infused energy by prioritizing raw emotional cello solos and orchestral collaborations.[43]
Key albums and recordings
Hauser's solo career has been marked by a series of albums that showcase the cello's versatility through innovative arrangements blending classical roots with contemporary influences. His debut solo album, Classic (2020), features orchestral covers of beloved classical pieces such as Bach's "Air on the G String" and Barber's "Adagio for Strings," recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra under conductor Robert Ziegler and produced by Nick Patrick.[44][45] The album emphasizes romantic and emotive melodies, highlighting Hauser's expressive playing while incorporating subtle live orchestral energy to enhance the intimacy of the cello-orchestra dialogue. It debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's Traditional Classical Albums chart and the UK Classical Artist Albums chart, underscoring its commercial and artistic impact.[45][46]Following Classic, Hauser explored more pop-infused territory with The Player (2022), a dynamic collection that merges dance rhythms and modern beats with classical cello arrangements, accompanied by the Czech National Symphony Orchestra conducted by Steven Mercurio.[45] Self-produced in part by Hauser himself, the album demonstrates the instrument's adaptability across genres, with tracks like reimagined versions of popular hits featuring brass-heavy orchestration and electronic elements to create a vibrant, crossover sound.[47] This release marked a thematic shift toward energetic, club-inspired interpretations, prioritizing the cello's rhythmic potential over purely melodic introspection.In 2025, Hauser released Cinema on September 12, a film-inspired album that reinterprets iconic movie soundtracks, including themes from James Bond's Spectre and Barbie, once again collaborating with the London Symphony Orchestra.[48] The production highlights sweeping, cinematic arrangements that blend orchestral grandeur with Hauser's signature cello lines, emphasizing emotional depth and narrative drive drawn from decades of film scores.[49] Recorded with a focus on the cello's vocal-like expressiveness, the 25-track digital collection (20 tracks on CD) underscores Hauser's ongoing commitment to versatile, high-impact recordings that bridge classical traditions with popular culture.
Tours, projects, and recent developments
Hauser embarked on the Rebel with a Cello Tour in 2024, performing across Europe and the United States with a focus on blending classical cello interpretations with contemporary arrangements.[50] In 2025, he launched the global Rebel Is Back Tour, featuring orchestral backing and stops in North America (May-June) and Europe (November), including dates in München and Wroclaw.[51][52]A key project in 2025 was the "Music Unites the World" initiative, launched on February 26, where Hauser committed to performing and recording one iconic song from each country worldwide to foster cultural connections through cello music.[53][54] This ongoing endeavor, as of November 2025, has included reimaginings of songs from countries such as Italy ("Nel blu dipinto di blu" in March), Tunisia, India, Azerbaijan ("Sen Gelmez Oldun" in July), and Bangladesh, emphasizing music's role in bridging global divides.[55][56]Recent developments include standout performances at major venues, such as the June 15, 2025, concert at Meadow Brook Amphitheatre in Rochester Hills, Michigan, where he incorporated multimedia elements like cinematic visuals to enhance his cello renditions.[57][58] These shows also featured guest vocalists, integrating singing to expand his crossover appeal.[59]Looking ahead, as of November 2025, Hauser announced a 2026 world tour, described as his final tour, with dates across North America, Europe, and Australia.[60] His philanthropy through the HAUSER Music Foundation continues to support music education initiatives in Croatia, providing resources and partnerships for young musicians in underprivileged communities.[4][61]
Awards and achievements
Classical music honors
Hauser's early career in classical music was marked by several notable victories in international competitions, establishing his reputation as a prodigious cellist. In 2009, he won the PLG Young Artists Auditions in the United Kingdom, which provided opportunities for performances at prestigious venues like the Purcell Room. That same year, Hauser secured first prize at the J & A Beare Solo Bach Competition, recognized for his exceptional interpretation of Bach's solo cello suites. Additionally, he received the NYOS Staffa Award from the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland, supporting his development as a soloist. These achievements, among 21 first prizes overall, highlighted his technical prowess and musical sensitivity during his studies at Trinity College of Music in London.[62]In chamber music, Hauser contributed to the Greenwich Trio, formed in 2006, which garnered recognition in international competitions across the UK, Belgium, and Italy, including the Solti Foundation and Tunnell Trust Awards. The trio's performances of works by Beethoven, Mendelssohn, and others earned praise for their cohesive ensemble playing and innovative interpretations. Hauser's involvement in this ensemble underscored his versatility in collaborative settings before transitioning to broader solo and crossover projects. For his classical contributions in Croatia, he received two Porin Awards in 2012 for the album Urban & Hauser, a collaboration with guitarist Damir Urban that blended classical elements with contemporary influences.[12][63]On the international stage, Hauser earned endorsements from legendary cellists, notably performing in four concerts dedicated to Mstislav Rostropovich, who recognized his talent shortly before his passing in 2007. In Croatia, he was honored with the Ribbon of the Order of Danica Hrvatska with the likeness of Marko Marulić in 2014, acknowledging his role as a cultural ambassador promoting Croatian heritage through global performances and initiatives like the HAUSER Music Foundation. These honors reflect Hauser's enduring impact on classical cello performance.[62][64]
Popular and crossover recognitions
During the 2CELLOS era, Hauser and collaborator Luka Šulić achieved significant crossover success on Billboard charts, blending classical cello with rock and pop elements. Their debut single "Smooth Criminal," featured on the Glee Cast album, entered the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 26 in February 2012.[65] The duo's self-titled debut album topped the Billboard Top Classical Albums chart in 2011, while their 2015 release Celloverse debuted at No. 1 on both the Classical Albums and Classical Crossover Albums charts, also reaching No. 95 on the Billboard 200.[66] These chart performances highlighted their appeal beyond traditional classical audiences.In his solo career as HAUSER, Hauser earned a Grammy Awardnomination in 2021 for Best Arrangement, Instrumental or Vocal Classical for his rendition of "For the Love of a Princess" from the Braveheart soundtrack, arranged with the London Symphony Orchestra.[67] This recognition underscored his innovative arrangements of film scores and popular themes. Additionally, Hauser attended the 51st Annual American Music Awards in May 2025, marking his presence in mainstream music ceremonies.[68]Hauser's crossover work has amassed substantial streaming and viewership milestones, with over one billion audio streams and four billion video views globally by 2025 across platforms like Spotify and YouTube.[51] These figures reflect fan-driven popularity, including viral covers that garnered millions of views on YouTube, contributing to fan-voted acclaim in digital music spaces.Hauser received the Murex d'Or International Award for International Musician of the Year in 2022, honoring his global influence in blending genres.[69] His 2025 project "Music Unites the World," which features cello interpretations of iconic songs from every country, has been praised for promoting cultural unity and expanding the cello's reach in popular music.[54]
Discography
Collaborations and group releases
Stjepan Hauser's early collaborative work included his tenure as cellist in the Greenwich Trio, formed in 2006 with violinist Lana Trotovšek and pianist Yoko Misumi. Active with Hauser until 2018, the ensemble made its recording debut in 2012 with an album featuring Beethoven's Piano Trio No. 2 and Mendelssohn's Piano Trio No. 2 in C minor, Op. 66, released on Meridian Records.[70] Although the trio performed works by Brahms during Hauser's time, including live renditions of the Piano Trios as early as 2008, no commercial recording of these specifically under his involvement has been issued.[71]Hauser rose to international prominence through the Croatian cello duo 2CELLOS, formed with Luka Šulić in 2011 and signed to Sony Masterworks. Their self-titled debut album, 2Cellos, released in 2011, featured bold cello arrangements of pop and rock hits, including covers of U2's "Where the Streets Have No Name" and Michael Jackson's "Smooth Criminal."[72] The duo's second album, In2ition (2013), expanded on this formula with guest appearances, notably pianist Lang Lang on a rendition of Rihanna's "We Found Love."[73]Subsequent 2CELLOS releases further blended classical technique with contemporary genres. Celloverse (2015) included a high-energy cover of AC/DC's "Thunderstruck," originally popularized by a 2011 viral video that amassed hundreds of millions of views, and a collaboration with Lang Lang on Paul McCartney's "Live and Let Die."[28] The duo explored film scores on Score (2017), arranging themes from movies like The Godfather and Game of Thrones with the London Symphony Orchestra.[24]Let There Be Cello (2018) returned to rock covers, featuring tracks like Muse's "Supermassive Black Hole" and Guns N' Roses' "Welcome to the Jungle." Their final studio effort, the 10th-anniversary album Dedicated (2021, with an extended edition in 2022), celebrated their career with reimagined hits such as Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper's "Shallow" and Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You."[23]Beyond 2CELLOS albums, Hauser participated in notable guest appearances and live collaborations. In 2012, 2CELLOS joined Red Hot Chili Peppers onstage in Zagreb for a performance of "Californication," marking a crossover moment that highlighted Hauser's versatility in rock contexts.[25] The duo's combined output achieved significant commercial success, with over 1 billion streams across platforms and nearly 1 million tickets sold for their tours.[24]
Solo releases
Stjepan Hauser, performing as HAUSER, began his solo recording career with a focus on reimagining classical and crossover repertoire through his signature cello arrangements, often featuring orchestral backing and his own adaptations. His releases emphasize romantic, cinematic, and thematic elements, blending traditional pieces with contemporary interpretations to appeal to both classical enthusiasts and broader audiences.[4]Hauser's debut solo studio album, Classic (2020), released by Sony Classical, features 16 tracks of beloved classical works arranged for cello and orchestra, performed with the London Symphony Orchestra under conductor Robert Ziegler. Highlights include Albinoni's "Adagio," Bach's "Air on the G String," and Pachelbel's "Canon," showcasing Hauser's emotive phrasing and technical virtuosity in a romantic vein. The album marked his transition to independent work, debuting at No. 1 on Billboard's Traditional Classical Albums chart.[74]Following this, The Player (2022), also on Sony Masterworks, represents a shift to crossover territory with 12 Latin-inspired tracks, including covers of "Sway," "Livin' la Vida Loca," and "Bésame Mucho," accompanied by the Czech National Symphony Orchestra conducted by Steven Mercurio. Hauser's self-arranged versions infuse the material with dramatic cello lines, achieving chart success on Billboard's Classical Crossover Albums and contributing to his over one billion audio streams milestone.[75][45][76]In 2023, Hauser released Christmas, a holiday-themed album on Sony Classical, featuring festive classics like "Silent Night" and "O Holy Night" in cello-orchestral arrangements, emphasizing warmth and introspection. A deluxe edition followed in 2024, expanding with additional tracks and visuals. This release, produced with orchestral support, topped seasonal charts and underscored his versatility in thematic projects.[77][5]Classic II (2024), the sequel to his debut, reunites Hauser with the London Symphony Orchestra under conductor Robert Ziegler for a collection of romantic classical staples, such as Mozart's "Piano Concerto No. 23" and Saint-Saëns' "The Swan," with Hauser providing fresh arrangements. It debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's Traditional Classical Albums chart, reinforcing his impact in the genre. A live gala recording from the Royal Albert Hall with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra was released separately in 2024.[78][79][80][81]Hauser's most recent studio album, Cinema (2025), released via Sony Masterworks, compiles 25 film scores and cinematic melodies—from Ennio Morricone's works to John Williams' themes—reimagined for cello with the London Symphony Orchestra. Themes evoke epic romance and drama, with Hauser's arrangements highlighting the instrument's expressive range; it achieved strong streaming performance, adding to his four billion video views across platforms.[48][82]Among Hauser's solo singles and EPs, notable releases include "Theme for Ennio" (2020), a tribute to Morricone from his early solo output, and "It's Not Unusual" (2022), a playful crossover single from The Player era. "The Phantom of the Opera" (2023) served as a dramatic EP lead-in to his holiday projects, while "Intimate" (2024) explores personal, minimalist cello interpretations. These tracks often preview album themes and have garnered millions of streams, bridging his classical roots with accessible pop elements.[83][84]
Release Type
Title
Year
Label
Key Notes
Studio Album
Classic
2020
Sony Classical
Debut; #1 Billboard Traditional Classical; LSO collaboration
Studio Album
The Player
2022
Sony Masterworks
Crossover/Latin themes; CNSO; over 1B streams contribution
Studio Album
Christmas
2023
Sony Classical
Holiday classics; orchestral arrangements
Studio Album / Deluxe Edition
Christmas (Deluxe)
2024
Sony Classical
Expanded edition with additional tracks
Studio Album
Classic II
2024
Sony Classical
Sequel; #1 Billboard Traditional Classical; LSO studio recording
You may hear Stjepan Hauser performing: 
