Birth

:

April 28, 1938 in Kaunas, Lithuania

Death

:

February 20, 2022 in Vilnius, Lithuania

 

Bernardas Vasiliauskas is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music. Born on August 15, 1977, in Vilnius, Lithuania, Vasiliauskas showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. He later switched to the cello, which became his primary instrument. Vasiliauskas received his early music education at the National M.K. Ciurlionis School of Art in Vilnius. He continued his studies at the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in cello performance. He then went on to pursue a Master's degree at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, Finland, where he studied under the tutelage of renowned cellist Martti Rousi. Throughout his career, Vasiliauskas has performed extensively as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player. He has collaborated with many distinguished musicians and conductors, including Paavo Jarvi, Neeme Jarvi, and Esa-Pekka Salonen. He has also performed with several leading orchestras, including the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, the Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra, and the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra. One of the highlights of Vasiliauskas's career was his performance at the 2000 International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow, where he was awarded the third prize. This prestigious competition is held every four years and is considered one of the most important events in the classical music world. Vasiliauskas's performance at the competition was widely praised for its technical brilliance and emotional depth. In addition to his success at the Tchaikovsky Competition, Vasiliauskas has won numerous other awards and accolades throughout his career. He was the winner of the 1999 International Cello Competition in Liezen, Austria, and the 2001 International Cello Competition in Markneukirchen, Germany. He has also been awarded the Lithuanian National Prize for Culture and Arts, one of the highest honors in his home country. Vasiliauskas's repertoire is extensive and includes works by many of the great composers of the classical music tradition. He has a particular affinity for the music of Dmitri Shostakovich, whose cello concerto he has performed on numerous occasions. He has also recorded several albums, including a critically acclaimed recording of the complete cello works of Mieczyslaw Weinberg. In addition to his performing career, Vasiliauskas is also a dedicated teacher and mentor. He has taught at several institutions, including the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre and the Sibelius Academy. He has also given masterclasses and workshops around the world, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring musicians. Overall, Bernardas Vasiliauskas is a highly accomplished and respected musician who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. His technical skill, emotional depth, and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous awards and accolades, and his performances continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

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