Photo: Edisons.nl
Royal Conservatoire alum Thomas Dulfer (BM'18) has won an Edison Klassiek prize 2026 for his debut album Palpitations, in the category Buitengewoon Klassiek (Extraordinary Classical). The bassoonist, who also works as a heart specialist, brings together his two fields of expertise in an album that explores the relationship between music and the human heart.
Music with a heartbeat
On Palpitations, Thomas explores the versatility of the bassoon through a wide range of musical styles and combinations. One of the album's most distinctive pieces is his own composition Heart Solo, in which his heartbeat becomes a rhythmic partner to his bassoon playing.
The Edison Klassiek jury praised the album's recording quality and its impressive variety of musical styles and instrumental combinations. The award recognises Thomas's creative approach to the bassoon and his exploration of new possibilities for the instrument.
From the Royal Conservatoire to an Edison
Thomas completed his bachelor's degree in Classical Music Bassoon at the Royal Conservatoire in 2018, graduating with the highest possible mark of 10, with distinction. He was also awarded the Fock Medal for his outstanding final examination. He continued his studies at the Hochschule für Musik und Tanz Köln in Germany, where he completed his master's degree under bassoonist Bram van Sambeek, graduating with a mark of 9.5.
Thomas has since established himself as a versatile musician, exploring the bassoon's possibilities beyond the traditional classical repertoire. In 2021, he received third prize and the Brian Pollard Prize at the Bassoon for Future Competition. With his Edison Klassiek award, Thomas adds another significant achievement to his musical career.
Congratulations, Thomas!
Website Thomas Dulfer
Website Edisons
Bachelor Classical Music Bassoon
Original article in Reformatorisch Dagblad
