Volker Bertelmann, recording as Hauschka, studied classical piano for ten years before developing his signature prepared-piano technique – wedging leather, felt, rubber, foil, and other objects into his piano to produce percussive, electronic-sounding textures. His name references Bohemian composer Vincenz Hauschka and Dr. Hauschka skin care. His discography began with Substantial (2004) and The Prepared Piano (2005); he was Oscar-nominated for his Lion score (with Dustin OHalloran) in 2017 and won the Academy Award for Best Original Score for All Quiet on the Western Front in 2023.

Mood and energy: Inventive, percussive, textured. Recommended uses: Reflection.

Sacred Ground Confidence Score: 5 out of 5 stars   Final recommendation: Approved.

Why this artist belongs in Sacred Sounds: An Academy Award-winning composer whose inventive prepared-piano technique offers a genuinely distinct texture within the piano collection.