Ivry Gitlis

Ivry Gitlis (25 August 1922 – 24 December 2020) was a celebrated Israeli violinist renowned for his virtuosity and deep musical interpretations. He also served as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, using his talent to promote cultural understanding. Throughout his illustrious career, Gitlis collaborated with prestigious orchestras, including the London Philharmonic, New York Philharmonic, Berlin Philharmonic, Vienna Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, and the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra.

Born Yitzhak-Meir Gitlis in Haifa to Jewish parents who emigrated from Ukraine, he began playing the violin at the tender age of five. His early training included lessons with Mme Velikovsky and Mira Ben-Ami, who introduced him to the legendary Bronisław Huberman. At just 11, Gitlis entered the Conservatoire de Paris, where he honed his skills under esteemed instructors like Jules Boucherit and George Enescu.

During World War II, Gitlis relocated to London, where he served in a war factory before joining the British Army's artists branch, performing for Allied troops. His post-war career blossomed with a debut alongside the London Philharmonic Orchestra and performances with major British orchestras.

In 1951, he gained recognition by placing fifth in the Long-Thibaud Competition in Paris, despite facing unfounded rumors regarding a stolen Stradivarius. Gitlis continued to achieve acclaim in the 1950s, including celebrated recordings for the Vox label. His interpretation of Bartók’s works won the "Best Record of the Year" from the New York Herald Tribune in 1955, solidifying his status as a violinist of exceptional talent.