Birth

:

1916 in South Africa

Death

:

1978 in Ipswich, Suffolk, England

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Romantic

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Cecil Aronowitz was a renowned classical music artist who made significant contributions to the world of music as a violist, conductor, and teacher. Born on March 30, 1916, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Aronowitz showed an early interest in music and began playing the violin at the age of six. However, he soon switched to the viola, which became his primary instrument. Aronowitz's musical talent was evident from an early age, and he received his first professional engagement at the age of 14, playing in the Johannesburg Symphony Orchestra. He later studied at the Royal College of Music in London, where he was a student of Lionel Tertis, the renowned violist who is often credited with elevating the viola to a solo instrument. After completing his studies, Aronowitz quickly established himself as a leading violist, performing with some of the most prestigious orchestras and ensembles in the world. He was a member of the London Symphony Orchestra from 1948 to 1956 and played with the English Chamber Orchestra, the Melos Ensemble, and the Amadeus Quartet, among others. Aronowitz was also a sought-after soloist, performing with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the Berlin Philharmonic, the Vienna Philharmonic, and the New York Philharmonic. He was particularly known for his interpretations of the works of British composers, such as Benjamin Britten and Ralph Vaughan Williams. In addition to his performing career, Aronowitz was also a respected conductor and teacher. He conducted the English Chamber Orchestra and the Northern Sinfonia, among others, and was a professor of viola at the Royal College of Music from 1956 to 1981. Many of his students went on to have successful careers in music, including the violist and conductor Yuri Bashmet. One of Aronowitz's most significant contributions to the world of music was his role in the establishment of the International Viola Congress. In 1973, he organized the first congress, which brought together violists from around the world to share their knowledge and expertise. The congress has since become a biennial event and is considered one of the most important gatherings of violists in the world. Aronowitz's contributions to music were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his career. He was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1976 and was awarded the Queen's Silver Jubilee Medal in 1977. He also received honorary doctorates from the University of York and the University of Cape Town. Despite his many achievements, Aronowitz remained humble and dedicated to his craft throughout his life. He once said, "I have always felt that music is a great gift, and I have been fortunate to be able to share it with others." His legacy lives on through his recordings, his students, and the many violists who continue to be inspired by his work.

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