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Evgeniy KokaMoldavian Soviet violinist and composer
Date of Birth: 15.04.1893
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Content:
Early Life and Education
Born on April 3 (15), 1893, in the village of Cureşniţa, Bessarabia, Evgeny Coca was drawn to music from an early age. His initial violin lessons came from his father, renowned lăutar Costache Coca. He later pursued formal music education at the Chişinău Music School under the tutelage of I. Finkel and K. Teutul. In 1926, Coca completed his studies at the Chişinău Conservatory, majoring in violin performance.
Performance and Composition Career
As a virtuoso violinist, Coca performed in numerous cities across Russia, Romania, Ukraine, and Moldova. His compositional output was prolific, encompassing a wide range of genres. From symphonies and ballets to oratorios and choral suites, Coca's works showcased his mastery of classical and folk influences.
He created music for plays and films, piano and violin pieces, and arranged countless folk songs and melodies. Among his notable compositions are the music for the first Moldovan musical comedy, "Marichika's Happiness," and the children's opera "The Firebird" (Pasărea Maiastră).
Recognition and Legacy
Coca's exceptional talent and contributions to Moldovan music were recognized with the title of Honored Artist of the Moldavian SSR in 1946. Streets in Chişinău, Drochia, Soroca, and Străşeni bear his name. A specialized music school-boarding school in Chişinău was named in his honor in 1967. Additionally, a memorial plaque was placed on the house in Chişinău (97 Mateevici Street) where Coca resided.
