Felix Klieser is no ordinary musician.
He is a true inspiration, redefining what’s possible in the world of classical music. Born without arms, Felix has mastered the French horn using his feet, proving that passion, dedication, and sheer talent can overcome any obstacle. His journey from a young boy fascinated by music to an internationally celebrated soloist is nothing short of remarkable.
Raised in Germany, Felix developed a deep love for the horn at an early age. While most musicians learn to play with their hands, he adapted in a way that seemed almost unimaginable—using his left foot to press the valves and his right foot to hold the instrument steady.
You can see him work his magic from around the 40-second mark in the clip below.
Breathtaking artistry
What started as a dream quickly turned into a professional career, as Felix refined his technique through years of disciplined practice and study. Today, he performs with some of the world's best orchestras, impressing audiences with his warm, rich tone and breathtaking artistry.
Felix Klieser was born in Göttingen in Germany in 1991. Having trained at the Hochschule für Music und Theater in Hannover, Klieser went on to win the 2014 ECHO Klassik award for young artist of the year.
His French horn sits on a stand, and he uses his right foot to move in and out of the bell of the instrument and his left foot to press the valves and change the notes. He has performed with Simon Rattle and has taken part in Sting's world tour.
Klieser became known and loved to British audiences from 2021 to 2023, when he became the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra's artist in residence. In the summer of 2023 he made a memorable BBC Proms debut with the Bournemouth band, performing Mozart's Horn Concerto No. 4.
Klieser's first recording was released in 2013 when he was just 22 on the Berlin Classics label. Reveries featured Romantic music for horn and piano, with Klieser performing alongside his regular chamber music partner, pianist Christof Keymer.
Two years later, he joined the Wurttemberg Chamber Orchestra of Heilbronn for a recording of horn concertos by Joseph Haydn and his brother, Michael Haydn.
He has poured his soul into his craft
In 2019, Klieser released an album of Mozart horn concertos with Camerata Salzburg, also on the Berlin Classics label. Then followed Beyond Words (2021), featuring works by Bach, Vivaldi and Gluck.
Beyond his technical brilliance, Felix is a performer who truly connects with his listeners. His music is expressive and heartfelt, filled with the kind of depth that only comes from someone who has poured their entire soul into their craft. Whether he’s playing Mozart, Strauss, or contemporary works, his performances are nothing short of mesmerizing.
His horn has a life of its own
On social media, Klieser enjoys giving his audience a glimpse into his daily life as an artist, offering behind-the-scenes moments from his concerts. His beloved horn, “Alex”—a Model 103 from the Alexander Brothers (Mainz)—has a personality of its own on Instagram and Facebook, often appearing in playful posts where it’s seen cooking, reading, and even going on vacation.
Felix’s story is about more than just music—it’s about determination, creativity, and breaking barriers. He doesn’t see himself as extraordinary; he simply loves what he does and refuses to let limitations define him. His success is a testament to the power of perseverance and a reminder that true artistry knows no bounds.
With multiple albums, international tours, and a growing reputation as one of the finest horn players of his generation, Felix Klieser continues to inspire musicians and audiences alike. His journey is a celebration of human potential, proving that with passion and hard work, anything is possible.
