In Loving Memory of Professor Jacques Israelievitch​

(1948 -- 2015)

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On September 5th, 2015, the world lost a one-of-a-kind musician.

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Professor Jacques Israelievitch was one of my most respected and treasured mentors. He was more than just a violin teacher.

He was a loving fatherly figure, a supportive mentor, an encouraging friend, an ideal role model, and an inspiring artist of the highest caliber.

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His faith in my own abilities at the time of my studies at the University of Toronto exceeded my own, and he always knew how to put a smile on your face. I will never forget my first experience playing for him in a masterclass, and the lessons that followed. He always reminded me that there is more to being an artist, more to being a musician, than simply perfected execution, or the path towards an illusion of perfection.

He shared with me his love of chamber music, and the importance of connecting and collaborating with your colleagues. He taught me that our students will outlive us - as will their work - and that the true combination of open imagination and sincere motivation knows no bounds for genuine artistic innovation.

The opportunity he gave me to study with him at The Chautauqua Institution propelled my love for ballet, and inspired all my subsequent and current work with choreography, photography, and filmmaking. 

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It is thanks to Professor Israelievitch that I am truly starting to understand and appreciate what it means to be an artist. To create art, to have an open-mind, and to inspire those who follow us.

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This page was created to accumulate precious recordings and memories, and to remind myself and all those who stumble upon it (including those who never met Mr. Israelievitch) of the phenomenal legacy and memories he left behind during his performing and teaching career.

I am forever grateful for all that he has instilled upon me and will see to it that his artistic inspirations be carried on as far as possible into the future through all mediums of art.

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For a more complete tribute website, visit:

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www.jacquesisraelievitch.com

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Created by Gabrielle Israelievitch from 2015-2017.

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