Maestro shares his stage

• Source: Global Times
• [23:45 October 15 2009]
• Comments

Pinchas Zukerman (right) performing with Yin'ou Kalin in Beijing.

By Xing Daiqi

Considered by many as one of the greatest violists of all time, Pinchas Zukerman joined young Chinese prodigy Yin'ou Kalin for a captivating performance at the Forbidden City Tuesday as part of the 12th Beijing Music Festival.

Uniting for Pach's Double Concerto for Two Violins, Zukerman and 14-year-old Yin'ou captured the hearts of the audience.

"He has a most rich and expressive sound, a very, very special warm, big sound which is like his personality. She [Yin'ou] was wonderful and very poised as well," commented pianist Jon Kimura Parker. "For her to be with this great man, she seemed very comfortable. I'm sure he made it very easy for her."

"The master knows how to bring out my musicality," Yin'ou said. "He is funny and communicative. He really enlightened me, especially in terms of sound."

The performance was the highlight of Zuckerman's concert with the China Philharmonic Orchestra.

"You know he is always very generous to give talented young people opportunities. I think he really inspired her to be her best," Parker added.

Prior to the performance, Zukerman held a master class for some of China's most talented young violinists.

"I admire Zukerman as a world class violinist. His profound understanding of music, his technique and sounds are excellent. That's what I wish to learn from him," said 14-year-old Yang Manjie, who traveled from Dalian to take part in the class.

Currently serving as the director of Ottawa's National Arts Center Orchestra, Zukerman said that teaching is one of the most important elements of his career. He has been involved in the establishment of music programs in London, New York, China, Israel and Ottawa and hopes to reach more people who live in other parts of the world.