Birth

:

April 16, 1896 in Proskurov, Ukraine

Death

:

February 1, 1981 in Petoskey, MI

Period

:

Baroque

 

 

Romantic

Genre

:

Concerto

 

 

Vocal

 

Mischa Mischakoff was a renowned classical music artist who made significant contributions to the world of music as a violinist and conductor. Born on January 18, 1895, in Kiev, Ukraine, Mischakoff was the son of a violinist and a pianist. His parents recognized his musical talent at an early age and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Mischakoff began his musical training at the age of six, studying the violin with his father. He made his public debut at the age of nine, performing the Mendelssohn Violin Concerto with the Kiev Symphony Orchestra. At the age of 12, he was accepted into the St. Petersburg Conservatory, where he studied with the renowned violinist Leopold Auer. After completing his studies at the conservatory, Mischakoff began his professional career as a violinist. He joined the Kiev Opera Orchestra and later became the concertmaster of the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra. In 1920, he emigrated to the United States and settled in New York City. In the United States, Mischakoff quickly established himself as one of the leading violinists of his time. He performed with many of the major orchestras in the country, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. He also performed as a soloist with the NBC Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Arturo Toscanini. In addition to his work as a violinist, Mischakoff was also an accomplished conductor. He served as the concertmaster and assistant conductor of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra from 1941 to 1943. He also conducted the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, D.C., and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. One of the highlights of Mischakoff's career was his performance at the White House for President Franklin D. Roosevelt. In 1942, he performed a recital for the president and his guests, which included members of the British royal family. The performance was a great success, and Mischakoff was praised for his virtuosity and musicality. Mischakoff was also a dedicated teacher and mentor to many young musicians. He taught at the Juilliard School in New York City and the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. He also gave masterclasses and workshops throughout the United States and Europe. Throughout his career, Mischakoff received many awards and honors for his contributions to the world of music. In 1955, he was awarded the Order of Merit by the government of Italy for his contributions to Italian music. He was also awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Ronald Reagan in 1986. Mischa Mischakoff passed away on February 1, 1981, at the age of 86. He left behind a legacy of musical excellence and dedication to his craft. His contributions to the world of music continue to inspire and influence musicians today.

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