Yuri Bashmet, Russian violist
Yuri Bashmet is a famous Soviet and later Russian violist who proved to the whole world that the viola is a full-fledged solo instrument. In addition, Yuri is a conductor, teacher and creator of the Moscow Soloists Chamber Ensemble. By the way, he is People’s Artist of the USSR (1991), laureate of the State Prize of the USSR (1986) and four State Prizes of Russia (1993, 1995, 2000, 2013). Also he is Honorary Academician of the London Academy of Arts.
The boy was born on January 24, 1953 in Rostov-on-Don into a Jewish family. In 1958, his family moved to Lvov. There he graduated from the Lvov Music School in 1971.
Talented viola player performed in the Great Hall of the Moscow Conservatory. The performance brought him the recognition and respect of teachers and connoisseurs of classical music, but also the first earnings.
In 1972, Yuri bought a viola of the eighteenth century made by the famous Italian master Paolo Testore in 1758. Even today the musician uses it in his performances.
In 1976, Bashmet graduated from the Moscow Conservatory. As a student Yuri was awarded the Second Award at the International Contest of Violists in Budapest (1975) and Grand Prix at the ARD International Music Competition in Munich (1976).
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