Jochen Kilian: The Musician, Family, And Theater Life Revealed!

Ms. Katharina Corwin 13 May 2025

Ever wondered what it takes to orchestrate a truly unforgettable theatrical experience? It's more than just actors and a stage; it's the maestro behind the music, the visionary who weaves together melodies and emotions, and in many instances that maestro is Jochen Kilian.

Jochen Kilian is a name synonymous with musical brilliance in the German-speaking theatre world. A multifaceted musician, he seamlessly transitions between the roles of pianist, composer, arranger, music director, and educator. His career, spanning decades, reflects a deep commitment to the art of musical theatre and a passion for bringing stories to life through sound. From the grand stages of Berlin and Munich to the intimate settings of smaller theaters, Kilian's influence is palpable, shaping the sonic landscape of countless productions.

His work isn't confined to a single genre or style. Kilian's versatility allows him to navigate the complexities of opera, the energy of musicals, and the subtlety of Liederabende with equal aplomb. This adaptability has made him a sought-after collaborator for directors and performers alike. The ability to not just play the notes, but to truly understand the narrative and emotional core of a piece, is what sets him apart. He is a storyteller, a weaver of sonic tapestries, and a vital component in the collaborative art of theatre.

Kilian's journey began, as it does for many musicians, with a focus on the piano. His early training honed his technical skills and fostered a deep understanding of musical structure and harmony. However, his ambition extended beyond the concert hall. He felt a pull towards the collaborative energy of the theatre, a desire to use his musical talents to enhance the storytelling process. This led him to embrace conducting, a role that allowed him to shape the overall musical vision of a production. He conducted for orchestra, bands, and other smaller performing art group.

His talent extends to composition and arrangement. Kilian isn't simply reinterpreting existing scores; he's actively creating new music and reimagining familiar pieces to fit the unique needs of each production. This creative input adds another layer of depth to his work and allows him to truly stamp his artistic identity onto each project. Moreover, his involvement in the development of new theatrical works, from plays to musicals, underscores his commitment to pushing the boundaries of the art form.

One particularly noteworthy chapter in Kilian's career was his tenure as Music Director at the Theater des Westens in Berlin and the Deutsches Theater in Munich during the 2015/16 season, where he helmed the iconic musical "Chicago." This prestigious appointment solidified his reputation as one of the leading musical minds in German theatre. To take on such a beloved and demanding work requires not only technical skill but also a deep understanding of the show's history and legacy. Kilian rose to the challenge, delivering a production that was both faithful to the original and infused with his own artistic sensibilities.

Beyond his work on established productions, Kilian is also committed to nurturing the next generation of musical talent. He is a dedicated teacher, sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring musicians. This dedication to education ensures that his artistic legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of performers and composers. His holistic approach to teaching likely emphasizes not only technical proficiency but also the importance of collaboration, creativity, and a deep understanding of musical storytelling.

He directed several musical productions, including "Ewig Jung" and "Tootsie" at the Burgfestspiele in Bad Vilbel. These productions showcase his ability to handle diverse musical styles and comedic sensibilities. "Tootsie," in particular, is a challenging musical with complex harmonies and a fast-paced plot, requiring a skilled music director to keep everything running smoothly. His leadership at the Burgfestspiele highlights his ability to connect with audiences and create memorable theatrical experiences in a regional setting.

The impact of Jochen Kilian's work is perhaps best felt not in the grand pronouncements of critics, but in the subtle nuances of a performance, in the way the music underscores a character's emotions, or in the way a perfectly timed chord can elicit a gasp or a tear from the audience. He is a master of detail, a meticulous craftsman who understands the power of music to transform a theatrical experience. He is also known as a vital person in the musical landscape, a talent to be reckoned with, and a key player in shaping the future of German-language theatre.

Further evidence of his versatility lies in his work with diverse ensembles. He has collaborated with actors, opera singers, ballet dancers, bands, and symphony orchestras, demonstrating his ability to adapt his musical style to suit a wide range of performance contexts. This versatility is a testament to his deep understanding of music and his ability to communicate effectively with musicians from different backgrounds. He thrives in collaborative environments, viewing each project as an opportunity to learn and grow.

The collaborative spirit is crucial to Kilian's artistic process. He understands that theatre is a team effort and that the best results are achieved when everyone is working together towards a common goal. He fosters an environment of mutual respect and open communication, allowing each member of the ensemble to contribute their unique talents to the production. This collaborative approach is evident in the seamless integration of music, acting, and staging in his productions.

It is worth noting that Jochen Kilian's contributions extend beyond the stage. He is also involved in projects that explore the intersection of music and technology. For example, he serves as VP Core Technology & Business Development Europe at the DSP Group. This role suggests an interest in leveraging technology to enhance the musical experience, perhaps through innovative sound design or interactive performance technologies.

Beyond his technical skills and artistic vision, Jochen Kilian is also known for his dedication and professionalism. He is a hard worker, a meticulous planner, and a passionate advocate for the arts. He is respected by his colleagues and admired by his audiences. His career is a testament to the power of talent, hard work, and a deep commitment to the art of musical theatre.

Dietmar Jacobs and Anna Schäfer also featured in the performance where Jochen Kilian was working. Under the direction of Hans Holzbecher, a truly grand evening was created. Jochen Kilian's performance in 1997 at the Stadttheater marked his start of journey with the theater.

His personal life is intertwined with his professional one. Jochen Kilian lives in Hamburg with his wife, actress Anna Schäfer, and their two children. This connection to family likely provides him with a sense of grounding and perspective, reminding him of the importance of community and human connection. The fact that his wife is also an actress suggests a shared understanding of the challenges and rewards of a life in the arts. It might be said that, Jochen and Anna support each other's careers and inspire one another's creativity.

Previously, he was the founder and managing partner of Theaterplatz GmbH until 2016. His contact information is available through Kilian, Jochen. This entrepreneurial venture suggests a desire to have greater control over the creative process and to shape the direction of the theatre industry. It also demonstrates his business acumen and his ability to manage complex projects.

In addition to his many professional achievements, Jochen Kilian is also a person who values connection and community. He is active on Facebook, where he connects with friends, colleagues, and fans. This online presence provides a glimpse into his personality and allows him to share his thoughts and experiences with a wider audience.

The magnetic properties of Jochen Kilian's work cannot be overstated. His presence alongside singer brings moments of moving, touching, thoughtful, and hilarious experiences. He brings an undeniable spark to every project he undertakes.

In conclusion, Jochen Kilian's career is a testament to the power of talent, hard work, and a deep commitment to the art of musical theatre. He is a multifaceted musician, a skilled conductor, a creative composer, and a dedicated educator. His contributions to the German-speaking theatre world have been significant, and his influence will continue to be felt for many years to come.

Category	Information
Full Name	Jochen Kilian
Birth Year	1967 (Approximate)
Occupation	Pianist, Composer, Arranger, Music Director, Educator, VP Core Technology & Business Development Europe at DSP Group
Spouse	Anna Schäfer (Actress)
Children	Two
Residence	Hamburg, Germany
Early Career	Pianist, later Conductor
Notable Roles	Music Director, Theater des Westens (Berlin), Deutsches Theater (Munich) - "Chicago" (2015/16)
Past Affiliations	Founder and Managing Partner, Theaterplatz GmbH (until 2016)
Key Skills	Pianist, Composer, Arranging, Conducting, Musical Direction, Teaching, Business Development
Musical Styles	Opera, Musicals, Liederabende, Development of new theatrical pieces
Facebook	Jochen Kilian on Facebook