Birth

:

November 11, 1931

Death

:

February 1, 2022

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Romantic

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Leslie Parnas is a renowned cellist and music educator who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on July 7, 1931, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Parnas grew up in a family of musicians. His father, Samuel Parnas, was a violinist and conductor, while his mother, Esther Parnas, was a pianist. Parnas began playing the cello at the age of six, and by the time he was a teenager, he had already established himself as a prodigious talent. Parnas received his early musical training from his parents, and later studied with the legendary cellist Emanuel Feuermann. He also studied at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, where he was a student of Gregor Piatigorsky. Parnas made his debut as a soloist with the Philadelphia Orchestra at the age of 17, and went on to perform with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. Throughout his career, Parnas has been recognized for his exceptional talent and artistry. He has won numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Avery Fisher Prize in 1982. He has also been a frequent guest on radio and television programs, and has recorded extensively for major record labels. One of the highlights of Parnas's career was his performance of the complete Bach Suites for Unaccompanied Cello at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. in 1979. The performance was hailed as a landmark event in the history of classical music, and was later released as a recording on the Musical Heritage Society label. In addition to his work as a performer, Parnas has also been a dedicated music educator. He has taught at several prestigious institutions, including the Juilliard School, the New England Conservatory of Music, and the University of Michigan. Many of his students have gone on to successful careers as professional musicians. Parnas has also been active in promoting the arts in his community. He has served on the boards of several arts organizations, including the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and the New York Philharmonic. He has also been a generous supporter of music education programs for young people. Throughout his long and distinguished career, Leslie Parnas has been a passionate advocate for the power of music to enrich our lives. His exceptional talent and dedication to his craft have inspired countless musicians and music lovers around the world, and his legacy will continue to be felt for generations to come.

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