“The viola is commonly (with rare exceptions) played by infirm violinists, or by decrepit players of wind instruments who happen to have been acquainted with a string instrument once upon a time.”
Richard Wagner, in 1869, quoted in Gattey Peacocks on the Podium (1982)
Violists have long been considered to be second-class citizens in the orchestra because their orchestral parts are (most of the time) non melodic and easier than violin parts. The instrument itself has less carrying power than the violin or cello, and has very a limited repertoire of solo works. On top of that, studies have shown that most viola players start out playing the violin. One of the first assumptions in school orchestras is that the conductor tends to switch the poor violinists over to viola, where they will do less harm.
However, going against all odds is Russian conductor and violist Yuri Bashmet, who belongs to the category of rare exceptions in the above quote. He graduated from the Moscow Conservatory, and began to develop his career as a solo player in the 1970s. Being one who is not afraid to take risks, he started conducting in the 1980s and in 1992, set up his orchestra of talented musicians, all graduates of the Moscow Conservatory.
Here’s a video of a delightful collaboration between Bashmet and Martha Argerich.
Bashmet performs in Singapore with the Moscow Soloists for a one night only concert, featuring repertoire by Mozart, Rossini, Stravinsky and others.
Watch this space for an exclusive interview with the Maestro, and stand a chance to win tickets to his concert on the 25th of May at the Esplanade Concert Hall!
The Yuri Bashmet & the Moscow Soloists concert is proudly sponsored by global energy company, Gazprom. For more information, please visit http://bashmetinsingapore.com