Harijs Adaskins Canadian violinist Date of Birth: 06.10.1901 Country: Canada

1. Harry Adaskin: A Renowned Canadian Violinist
2. Emigration and Education
3. Performance Career
4. Broadcasting and Education
5. Publications

Harry Adaskin: A Renowned Canadian Violinist

Born on August 9, 1901, in Odessa, Ukraine, Harry Adaskin's early life was intertwined with the vibrant world of music. His brother, Murray, became a renowned Canadian violinist, while his father, John, was a respected music producer.

Emigration and Education

Adaskin's family emigrated to Canada in 1905, where he gained Canadian citizenship in 1909. His musical education began at the Toronto Conservatory of Music, where he studied under Berta Drechsler Adamson from 1913 to 1918. Later, he honed his skills at the Canadian Academy of Music under Luigi von Kunits from 1918 to 1922.

Performance Career

Adaskin's passion for chamber music led him to devote his career largely to this genre. In 1920, he joined the Academy Quartet as a second violinist, ultimately becoming a member of the renowned Hart House Quartet from 1923 to 1938. The same year, he formed a duo with pianist Frances Marr, who later became his wife. Together, they performed an extensive repertoire of 19th and 20th-century works, including pieces by Canadian composers.

Broadcasting and Education

In addition to his performance career, Adaskin was also an accomplished broadcaster. He hosted several radio programs for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), including "Music for Conversation" and "Tuesday Night." As an educator, he taught at the Toronto Conservatory of Music from 1941 to 1946. In 1946, he became the first Dean of the Faculty of Music at the University of British Columbia. After retiring as Dean in 1958, he continued to teach at the university until 1973.

Publications

Adaskin authored two autobiographical volumes: "A Fiddler's World - Memoirs to 1938" (1977) and "A Fiddler's Choice - Memoirs from 1938 till 1980" (1982). These works provide valuable insights into the life and career of this remarkable Canadian musician.