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David Zehavi was a prominent Israeli composer of classical music, known for his unique style that blended traditional Jewish melodies with contemporary Western classical music. Born on December 22, 1927, in Jerusalem, Zehavi grew up in a musical family and began playing the piano at a young age. His father, Yitzhak Zehavi, was a cantor and composer, and his mother, Rachel, was a pianist and music teacher. Zehavi's early musical education was influenced by his parents, who exposed him to Jewish liturgical music and classical music. He studied piano with his mother and later with the renowned pianist and composer Paul Ben-Haim. Zehavi also studied composition with Ben-Haim and later with the composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein. Zehavi's musical career began in the 1950s when he started composing music for the theater and film. He also worked as a music teacher and conductor, leading several orchestras in Israel. In 1961, Zehavi was appointed the musical director of the Israel Broadcasting Authority, a position he held for over a decade. Zehavi's compositions were heavily influenced by his Jewish heritage and his love for traditional Jewish melodies. He often incorporated these melodies into his works, creating a unique blend of Jewish and Western classical music. One of his most famous works, the "Jerusalem Symphony," is a prime example of this style. The symphony, composed in 1966, is a tribute to the city of Jerusalem and features traditional Jewish melodies alongside Western classical music. Another notable work by Zehavi is the "Concerto for Flute and Orchestra," composed in 1973. The concerto is a virtuosic showcase for the flute, with the soloist weaving in and out of the orchestra's lush textures. The piece also features Zehavi's signature blend of Jewish and Western classical music, with the flute playing traditional Jewish melodies. Zehavi's music was well-received both in Israel and abroad. He won several awards for his compositions, including the Israel Prize for Music in 1990. His music was also performed by some of the world's leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic and the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. Zehavi continued to compose music until his death in 1991. His legacy lives on through his compositions, which continue to be performed and recorded by musicians around the world. His unique style, blending traditional Jewish melodies with Western classical music, has inspired many composers and continues to be a significant influence on contemporary classical music.

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