Ulrich Hoffmeier (guitar, banjo, violin)

Joined the Palast Orchester in: 1996

When was your perfect moment?
My perfect moment, which I almost slept through had it not been for a clap on my behind, was: my birth. What can be more perfect than coming to the world while asleep?

How did you find to your instrument?
Music always played a large role in our family. My siblings taught me my first chords on the guitar and we soon founded a band that performed in Berlin´s pubs. However violin was missing and I was designated to learn it. Around then I heard Miles Davis on radio for the first time. What an experience!

How did you find to the Palast Orchester?
I began in 1996 when my predecessor decided to quit. My first engagement was a 3 week cruise from Rio around Cap Hoorn to Valparaiso.

Which music influenced you particularly?
My first influence was my violin teacher who had played violin, saxophone, piano and guitar in various dance bands during the 30s. Otherwise I was greatly influenced by the groups I played with: our family band „Sally Dogs“ played Irish and international folk, with Jakob Lichtman and his group I had my first audio and film-recordings and my own group Zigan-tzigan" was internationally successful.

What do you like about the concert tours?
Having time to read and being freed of everyday chores.

Where would you still like to perform?
In all European capitals, New Zealand and Australia.