Julian Rachlin, a Lithuanian-born virtuoso violinist, violist, and conductor, made his debut on the world stage on December 8, 1974, in the vibrant city of Vilnius, Lithuania, where he was born to a Jewish family. At a remarkably early age of four, in 1978, he embarked on a new chapter in his life, emigrating with his musician parents to the picturesque country of Austria, where he would spend the next several years nurturing his innate musical talents.
Rachlin's early musical education commenced at the prestigious Konservatorium Wien, where he underwent a thorough and comprehensive study of the violin within the framework of the Soviet tradition, under the expert guidance of the renowned educator and violinist, Boris Kuschnir. In addition to his formal education, Rachlin also received private lessons from the illustrious violinist, Pinchas Zukerman, whose tutelage undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping his musical development. This rigorous and well-rounded training, which spanned his formative years, served as the foundation upon which he built his future success as a child prodigy, laying the groundwork for a career marked by exceptional talent and artistic achievement.
Rachlin's remarkable journey as a public performer commenced in the year 1984, marking the beginning of a illustrious career that would soon garner widespread recognition. His exceptional talent did not go unnoticed, as he went on to claim the coveted Eurovision Young Musician of the Year title in 1988, a prestigious honor that catapulted him to international fame. This milestone achievement led to a string of high-profile performances, where he had the privilege of sharing the stage with some of the world's most esteemed conductors and musicians, fostering a network of professional relationships that would prove invaluable to his future endeavors.
Rachlin's illustrious career has been punctuated by a multitude of standout performances, with a notable highlight being his appearance at the prestigious Berlin Festival, where he had the privilege of sharing the stage with the esteemed conductor Lorin Maazel. Furthermore, he made a memorable debut with the renowned Vienna Philharmonic, with the guidance of the illustrious Riccardo Muti. Throughout his career, Rachlin has had the opportunity to collaborate with numerous leading orchestras around the world, including the iconic New York Philharmonic. His artistic endeavors have also led to fruitful partnerships with a diverse array of talented musicians, encompassing the likes of the innovative Polish composer Krzysztof Penderecki and the accomplished Russian violinist Yuri Bashmet.
Julian Rachlin, a multifaceted artist, has not only carved out a successful career as a soloist, but has also demonstrated a deep commitment to the world of chamber music. One of his most notable endeavors in this realm is the establishment of his own music festival, "Julian Rachlin and Friends," which takes place in the picturesque city of Dubrovnik. This festival has provided a unique platform for Rachlin to share his passion for music with audiences from around the world.
Furthermore, Rachlin has been a tireless champion of the viola, an instrument often overshadowed by its more prominent counterparts. He has dedicated himself to promoting the concerto and chamber repertoire for the viola, a mission he has been pursuing since the year 2000. Through his tireless efforts, Rachlin has helped to raise the profile of the viola, ensuring its continued relevance and importance in the world of classical music.
Rachlin's impressive array of accolades encompasses the prestigious International Prize of the Accademia Musicale Chigiana of Siena, which he had the distinction of receiving in the year 2000.
Furthermore, he has been entrusted with the esteemed position of principal guest conductor of the renowned Royal Northern Sinfonia and the Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra.
In addition to this, Rachlin has been honored with the role of chief conductor of the Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra, as well as music director of the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra.
Rachlin's illustrious career has been marked by a long-standing partnership with his faithful "ex Liebig" Stradivarius violin, a majestic instrument that has been generously loaned to him by the esteemed Dkfm. Angelika Prokopp Privatstiftung, a renowned philanthropic organization dedicated to promoting the arts.
This exceptional violin, with its rich history and storied past, has been a constant companion to Rachlin, providing him with the perfect instrument to express his musical genius. Throughout his numerous performances and recordings, the "ex Liebig" Stradivarius has been an integral part of his artistic journey, allowing him to convey the depths of human emotion and the beauty of the musical world.
As a testament to the enduring bond between Rachlin and his violin, the Dkfm. Angelika Prokopp Privatstiftung has entrusted him with this treasured instrument, recognizing the profound impact it has had on his career and the world of classical music.
