Stjepan Hauser, known professionally as HAUSER, is one of the most visible cello voices of the 21st century. He brought a rock-influenced, cinematic energy to a traditionally classical instrument, helping the cello leap from concert halls to stadiums, TV shows and viral videos.
His mix of refined technique, charismatic stage presence, and savvy use of digital media changed how millions see the cello — not just as an orchestral voice but as a lead instrument capable of pop, rock, film and crossover repertoire.
Early life and musical roots
Hauser was born in Pula, Croatia, into a musical family and was introduced to the cello at a young age. Growing up in a household with musical influences helped shape his early approach: the instrument’s voice, its close match to the human voice, and its emotional range captivated him. He completed his early studies in Croatia before moving abroad for advanced training, a path common among exceptional classical soloists who seek broader performance and study opportunities.
Training and formative studies
Hauser built a strong technical and interpretive foundation at conservatories and through master classes. He studied in Zagreb and continued his education in the United Kingdom, where he worked with respected pedagogues and completed postgraduate studies. This formal training gave him the chamber-music insight and orchestral discipline that underpin his virtuosic solo playing.
The formation of 2CELLOS — a breakout moment
The moment that shifted Hauser from promising soloist to global phenomenon was the formation of 2CELLOS with fellow cellist Luka Šulić. Their energetic, unorthodox arrangements of pop and rock songs — performed with orchestral depth but the directness of a rock duo — quickly went viral. A breakthrough YouTube cover of a well-known pop/rock tune catapulted them into international attention; from there, 2CELLOS signed with a major label, released albums, performed on television shows and began playing arenas. Their success is a textbook example of how classical technique plus pop repertoire and social media can create crossover stardom.
Signature style: classical technique meets stagecraft
What defines Hauser’s playing is the synthesis of deep classical technique with the drama of a rock frontman. He combines warm tone production, bow control and articulation from his conservatory training with amplified setups, showmanship, and repertoire choices that include film music, pop covers, and classical masterpieces. This hybrid style lets him connect with both traditional concert audiences and younger listeners who discover him through streaming platforms and viral clips.
Solo career, collaborations and recordings
Alongside his work with 2CELLOS, Hauser has pursued solo projects and collaborations. He has released solo albums and projects that showcase his love for melody — from arrangements of film themes and classical staples to reimagined pop songs. He’s also appeared with major orchestras, performed at iconic halls like the Royal Albert Hall and Amsterdam Concertgebouw, and collaborated with global artists across genres. These projects underscore his dual identity as both a classical soloist and a crossover entertainer.
Notable performances and accolades
Hauser’s career includes performances at prestigious venues and invitations to high-profile festivals. He has been recognized with awards in Croatia and abroad, and his recordings have been released on major labels. His work with 2CELLOS earned commercial success and attention from mainstream media, while his solo projects have been praised for their emotional clarity and technical polish.
Artistic philosophy and approach to repertoire
Hauser advocates for accessibility in classical music: he believes the cello’s voice can tell any story and that repertoire boundaries are meant to be explored. Whether he’s playing a Rachmaninoff theme, a Morricone film score, or a contemporary pop song, his goal is to bring authenticity and emotional directness. He often speaks about the cello’s human quality — its ability to mimic breath and speech — and this philosophy shapes every interpretation.
Influence on the next generation
Beyond recordings and concerts, Hauser’s visual presence — films, high-quality concert videos, and social media — has become part of his legacy. Young cellists cite him as an inspiration because he demonstrates that a classical instrument can be both technically rigorous and wildly popular. Music schools and teachers now point to his career when explaining modern career paths for instrumentalists: a blend of classical excellence, crossover programming, and self-promotion.
Personal life — the human behind the cello
While Hauser is a public figure on stage, he tends to keep personal life details more private. He occasionally shares behind-the-scenes moments, rehearsal clips, and reflections about musical life with fans. His charisma and professionalism — on top of his technical gifts — make him an admired figure both within the music industry and among the wider public.
FAQ — Hauser Cello Biography (Frequently Asked Questions)
Who is HAUSER?
HAUSER is the stage name of Stjepan Hauser, a Croatian cellist best known as one half of the crossover duo 2CELLOS and for his solo recordings and performances.
Where is Hauser from?
He was born in Pula, Croatia.
What made 2CELLOS famous?
2CELLOS gained viral attention for high-energy cello arrangements of pop and rock songs performed with orchestral depth and dramatic stagecraft, amplified by YouTube and viral media.
Does Hauser perform classical repertoire too?
Yes. Hauser performs standard classical works, film music, and arranged pop/rock pieces — often blending genres fluidly in his concerts and recordings.
Has Hauser performed at major venues?
Yes — he has appeared at venues such as Royal Albert Hall, Wigmore Hall and other prominent international stages.
Where can I watch Hauser perform?
Official concert videos, solo projects and 2CELLOS performances are available on Hauser’s official website and YouTube channels, plus streaming services for his albums.
Conclusion
Stjepan Hauser (HAUSER) is a modern exemplar of how classical mastery can meet contemporary culture. From his musical upbringing in Pula to conservatory training and the global phenomenon of 2CELLOS, Hauser’s career shows a musician who refuses to be boxed in. He honors classical tradition while opening doors — making the cello not only heard but felt across generations and genres. Whether you’re a classical purist or a pop fan who discovered him through a viral clip, Hauser’s artistry stands as a powerful reminder that great music transcends category labels.