Christof Michael Huebner, 61, passed away in the early hours of March 2, 2025, at his home in Baltimore in the loving and caring presence of his wife Kate Zahradnik. He had been a member of Local 802 since 1993. Christof was a celebrated violist with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and was lauded for his wise musicianship, beautiful and sensitive playing, and supportive presence and leadership (in the words of his colleagues). His passion for artistry and life, as well as cycling, watches, Navajo pottery and rugs, dogs, and motorcycles inspired many deep connections with friends and community.

Born in Graz, Austria, Christof developed his musical ambition and talent in the vibrant classical music sphere of Vienna, studying at the Conservatory of Music as well as the Hochschule für Musik with Hatto Beyerle of the Alban Berg Quartet. His early drive and dedication led him to a position at the age of 19 with the Vienna State Opera, which included opportunities with the Vienna Chamber Orchestra and the Vienna Philharmonic. A Fulbright scholarship brought him to the United States a few years later to study with renowned violist Michael Tree at what was then the St. Louis Conservatory. Continuing positions with Musicians from Marlboro and the Boston Symphony, as well as his full embrace of the ideals of freedom, diversity, inclusion and opportunity in the United States led him to stay. Christof proudly founded and led the mixed chamber ensemble Walden Chamber Players in Boston which maintained several residencies, commissioned numerous works, and concertized throughout the United States for 23 years. He also served in leadership positions as artistic director with Orpheus in his 27 years with the group. In Baltimore, he most recently began a second career as a real estate agent with Long and Foster.

In addition to his wife Kate Zahradnik, Christof is survived by his dear sister Dorothea Hübner and her three children, Claire, Conrad, and Christoph, as well as his son Mattias Huebner and first wife Cynthia Waxman. The cause of death was esophageal cancer, diagnosed in early 2022.

Obituary submitted by Kate Zahradnik.