Réka Szilvay is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant impact in the world of music. She was born on 22nd September 1975 in Helsinki, Finland, to a family of musicians. Her father, Géza Szilvay, is a renowned violinist and pedagogue, and her mother, Annette Szilvay, is a pianist. From a young age, Réka was exposed to music and began playing the violin at the age of three. Réka's musical journey began with her father, who was her first teacher. She later went on to study at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, where she received her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in music. During her studies, she was awarded several scholarships, including the prestigious Finnish Cultural Foundation Scholarship. Réka's talent as a violinist was recognized early on in her career, and she began performing in concerts and competitions. In 1994, she won the first prize at the International Jean Sibelius Violin Competition, which was a significant achievement for her. This win opened up many doors for her, and she began performing in concerts all over the world. One of Réka's most significant achievements was the founding of the Helsinki Strings, a chamber orchestra that she founded in 2002. The orchestra is made up of young musicians who are passionate about classical music, and they have performed in many concerts and festivals around the world. The Helsinki Strings have also released several albums, which have received critical acclaim. Réka has also collaborated with many renowned musicians and conductors, including Esa-Pekka Salonen, Jukka-Pekka Saraste, and Osmo Vänskä. She has performed with many orchestras, including the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Tapiola Sinfonietta. In addition to her performances, Réka is also a dedicated teacher and pedagogue. She has taught at the Sibelius Academy and the Turku Conservatory, and she is currently a professor of violin at the Vienna University of Music and Performing Arts. She is also the founder and artistic director of the International Masterclass for Violin in Finland, which is a prestigious program that attracts young violinists from all over the world. Réka has received many awards and honors throughout her career. In 2003, she was awarded the Pro Finlandia Medal, which is one of the highest honors that can be bestowed upon a Finnish citizen. She has also been awarded the Finnish State Prize for Music and the Finnish Broadcasting Company's Classical Music Prize. Réka's dedication to music and her passion for teaching have made her a respected figure in the world of classical music. Her performances have inspired many young musicians, and her teaching has helped to shape the careers of many talented violinists. She continues to perform, teach, and inspire others with her music, and her legacy will undoubtedly continue for many years to come.

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