Rita Porfiris is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music. She was born in New York City in 1961 and grew up in a family of musicians. Her father was a violinist, and her mother was a pianist. From a young age, Porfiris showed a keen interest in music and began playing the viola at the age of nine. Porfiris received her Bachelor of Music degree from the Juilliard School, where she studied with William Lincer. She then went on to earn her Master of Music degree from the Yale School of Music, where she studied with Jesse Levine. During her time at Yale, Porfiris was awarded the prestigious Woolsey Hall Concerto Competition, which allowed her to perform as a soloist with the Yale Symphony Orchestra. After completing her studies, Porfiris began her professional career as a violist. She has performed with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. Porfiris has also been a member of several chamber music ensembles, including the Muir String Quartet and the Boston Chamber Music Society. One of the highlights of Porfiris's career was her performance at the 1994 Marlboro Music Festival. The festival is known for bringing together some of the world's most talented musicians, and Porfiris was invited to perform as a soloist. Her performance was widely praised, and she was invited back to the festival for several more years. Porfiris has also been recognized for her contributions to the world of music. In 1995, she was awarded the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant, which is given to outstanding young musicians who show great potential for a successful career in music. The grant allowed Porfiris to continue her work as a soloist and chamber musician. In addition to her performing career, Porfiris is also a dedicated teacher. She has taught at several prestigious institutions, including the New England Conservatory of Music and the Juilliard School. Porfiris is known for her innovative teaching methods, which focus on developing the whole musician, not just the technical aspects of playing an instrument. Porfiris has also been involved in several recording projects. She has recorded several albums with the Muir String Quartet, including works by Beethoven, Brahms, and Schubert. Porfiris has also recorded several solo albums, including "Viola Music from the Americas" and "Viola Music from the Romantic Era." Throughout her career, Porfiris has been a passionate advocate for the viola. She has worked to promote the instrument and its repertoire, commissioning new works and performing lesser-known pieces. Porfiris has also been involved in several educational initiatives, including workshops and masterclasses for young violists. In conclusion, Rita Porfiris is a highly respected classical music artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music. Her talent as a violist, combined with her dedication to teaching and promoting the viola, has earned her numerous accolades and awards. Porfiris's legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of musicians.

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