Popper Heritage Association
Connecting the heritage of the past with the cellists of the future.
The Popper Heritage Association was founded in Budapest in 2026 with the mission of preserving and advancing the artistic and pedagogical legacy of David Popper while supporting the next generation of cellists.
Building on more than twenty-five years of tradition of the David Popper International Cello Competition, the Association expands its activities through artistic and educational initiatives that connect tradition with contemporary musical life.
As a nonprofit cultural organization, it serves as a platform for international collaboration among young musicians, distinguished artists, educators, and audiences.
Through its two principal programs — the David Popper International Cello Competition and the Popper Academy — the Association creates meaningful opportunities for artistic development, cultural exchange, and musical excellence.
Founders
The Association was founded by Csaba Onczay and Gabriella Szili, who share a deep commitment to nurturing young talent and preserving the living tradition of cello playing.
Csaba Onczay
Csaba Onczay is an internationally acclaimed Hungarian cellist and Professor Emeritus of Cello at the Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest.
For decades, he has played a central role in Hungarian and international cello pedagogy. He is the founder of the David Popper International Cello Competition and a founding member of several major cultural organizations, including the Hungarian Kodály Society and the Hungarian Society of Musical Arts.
He is also a full member of the Hungarian Academy of Arts.
Gabriella Szili
Gabriella Szili is co-founder and artistic organizer of the David Popper International Cello Competition.
Her work has long been dedicated to talent development and arts education. She founded regional talent centers in Várpalota and Pápa to support young people across artistic disciplines.
As an expert in arts education and consultancy, she has contributed to several national evaluation and advisory programs. Since 2007, she has served as director of the Allegro Primary Art School in Pápa.
Why David Popper Still Matters
The works and teaching of David Popper continue to shape the technical and artistic development of cellists worldwide.
His études, concert pieces, and pedagogical approach remain fundamental to cello training, forming a bridge between tradition and modern performance practice.
Continuing the Legacy
Inspired by Popper’s artistic vision, the Association brings together young musicians, distinguished teachers, and international audiences through competitions and masterclasses.
By doing so, it preserves a vital musical tradition while opening new pathways for the future of cello playing.