Famous & Favorite Fiddlers

As you can see, I've a flair for alliteration at times.

Today I want to share with all of you some of my favorite violinists of all time. Of course, there are the great masters of the modern era, including Jascha Heifetz, Yehudi Menuhin, and Itzhak Perlman, and the young virtuosi of America: Sarah Chang, Joshua Bell, and Hilary Hahn. Before them came Niccolo Paganini, the legendary violinist with long fingers who composed some of the most difficult solo violin repertoire in existence (including the Caprices, of which there are 24). We must not leave out Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, that most famous of classical musicians to those little inclined to listen to classical music.
Let it not be said that I judge all violinists by Mendelssohn's E minor violin concerto - but it may be a major consideration if their interpretation is appropriately expressive.

Allow me to introduce you to...

Oliver Hoidn, a fabulous violinist a year older than myself who studied at the same studio as my younger sister and could whip out some serious Bach without any mistakes.

Aishwarya Venkataraman, who is so much more than a violinist. We studied together in middle school, and though she is younger than me, this talented lady already has a bachelor's degree in music from Berkelee School of Music in Boston. I am usually mesmerized by her flawless performances of Carnatic (South Indian) music on violin. She also played electric violin in school jazz bands up through high school, and found a way to work that into her musical degree, as well.  Let it also be known that she is currently pursuing pre-medicinal studies at Stanford University, going above and beyond her musical talents.

Alexander Prior - when I found out about this prodigy, I was blown away. I first heard of him on a PBS television program that was rebroadcast from the UK, featuring the World's Greatest Young Musicians. Alex Prior has the background of the great musicians of yore - with Russian lineage and intense classical training such that he can sing in seven languages, play several orchestral instruments, and compose a prolific amount of works for ensembles, including a ballet and an opera. He is currently an internationally renowned conductor, for his youth and talent, as well as his experience as the conductor of professional orchestras. His works are being produced and performed to great acclaim, and he continues to pursue excellence in musical study and performance. I have mentioned Alex in this list simply because he is so inspirational to all young musicians.

Simone Porter, a lovely young violinist recruited by Alex Prior for the above-mentioned program and collaboration. I was dazzled by her expression the first time I heard and watched her play. Now I have heard her interpretation of Sarasate - and that is pure talent and precision.  Simone's confidence radiates from the stage, recital hall or classroom and her personality surfaces in her spirited interpretations of pieces written strictly for violin virtuosi.

Now that I am on the subject of Gypsy violin, how about Alexander Rybak? This dashing young fellow from Belarus steals hearts with his skillful fiddling and charming lyrics in a pop-folk crossover style. I have, however, heard him break hairs (bow hairs, that is) on Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" and other challenging pieces of classical repertoire. Another favorite of mine is Kim Angelis, who composes and performs with her husband Jozef, continuing the tradition of Gypsy violin and dance given to her by her mother. I saw her in concert once at Marymount and marveled at the way she could dance and play double stops at the same time!

The most accomplished fiddler I have ever heard who can dance and play simultaneously is the beautiful Mairead Nesbitt, of Celtic Woman fame. Who, if truth be told, was devastatingly accomplished long before the show was conceived. Her expression and immaculate execution are just captivating, as is her youthful presence onstage.

Last but not least, let there be honorable mention of Steve Rees, the fiddler of Cajun band L'Angelus, which is formed from a lively bunch of brothers and sisters down in Louisiana. His understated, relaxed posture, while he produces intricate bluegrass and Cajun-style fiddle sounds, make me want to learn that technique.

There may be plenty more violinists and fiddlers to add to this list as time goes by, but for now I have given you all something to think about - or listen to, as the case may be. Life is too short not to hear (and make) great music.

December 2012 ------------------------------------------

Introducing: David Garrett, Ann Fontanella, Jun Sung Ahn, Lucia Micarelli