Inbal Megiddo is a renowned cellist and music educator who has made a significant impact on the classical music scene in New Zealand and beyond. Born in Israel in 1975, Megiddo began playing the cello at the age of seven and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. She went on to study at the Rubin Academy of Music in Jerusalem, where she was mentored by some of the most respected cellists in the world. After completing her studies, Megiddo embarked on a successful career as a soloist and chamber musician, performing with some of the most prestigious orchestras and ensembles in the world. She has been praised for her technical skill, musicality, and emotional depth, and has won numerous awards and accolades for her performances. One of Megiddo's most notable achievements was winning the prestigious Adam International Cello Competition in 2000. This competition, which is held every two years in New Zealand, attracts some of the most talented young cellists from around the world. Megiddo's victory was a significant milestone in her career, and helped to establish her as one of the leading cellists of her generation. In addition to her success as a performer, Megiddo has also made a significant contribution to music education in New Zealand. She is the founder and director of the New Zealand Cello Retreat, an annual event that brings together cellists of all ages and levels for a week of intensive study and performance. The retreat has become a beloved institution in the New Zealand music community, and has helped to inspire and nurture a new generation of cellists. Megiddo's commitment to music education has also led her to establish the Megiddo Music Academy, a private music school in Wellington that offers lessons in cello, piano, and music theory. The academy has quickly become one of the most respected music schools in New Zealand, and has helped to foster a love of music in countless young people. Throughout her career, Megiddo has remained committed to exploring new musical horizons and pushing the boundaries of classical music. She has collaborated with musicians from a wide range of genres, including jazz, folk, and world music, and has performed in venues ranging from concert halls to prisons. One of Megiddo's most memorable performances was a concert she gave in 2011 at the Rimutaka Prison in New Zealand. The concert was part of a rehabilitation program for inmates, and Megiddo's performance was met with rapturous applause and tears from the audience. The experience was a powerful reminder of the transformative power of music, and of Megiddo's commitment to using her talent to make a positive impact on the world. In addition to her work as a performer and educator, Megiddo is also a passionate advocate for social justice and environmental sustainability. She has used her platform as a musician to raise awareness about issues such as climate change and human rights, and has worked with organizations such as Amnesty International and Greenpeace to promote positive change. In recognition of her many achievements, Megiddo has been honored with numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. In 2019, she was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to music, and in 2020 she was named a finalist for the New Zealander of the Year award. Despite all of her success, Megiddo remains humble and dedicated to her craft.

More....