Jacques Gordon American violinist of Russian origin. Date of Birth: 07.03.1899 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Career
2. Move to the United States and Musical Studies
3. Founding the Gordon String Quartet
4. Focus on Chamber Music and Musical Education
5. Leadership Roles and Teaching
6. The Street Violinist Experiment
7. Legacy and Death

Early Life and Career

Mikhail Gorokhov was born in Russia in 1895. His exceptional talent for the violin emerged at a young age, and he began performing publicly at the age of nine. In 1913, he embarked on a successful European tour.

Move to the United States and Musical Studies

In 1914, Gorokhov relocated to the United States. He pursued further violin studies under the renowned Franz Kneisel and became concertmaster of the Berkshire String Quartet in 1916.

Founding the Gordon String Quartet

In 1921, Gorokhov established his own string quartet, known as the Gordon String Quartet. The same year, he became concertmaster of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the youngest musician to hold this position in the orchestra's history.

Focus on Chamber Music and Musical Education

In 1930, the Gordon String Quartet's touring schedule became so intense that Gorokhov resigned from his position with the orchestra. He also founded the Music Mountain Festival, a summer music school in Falls Village, Connecticut, dedicated to chamber music.

Leadership Roles and Teaching

From 1936 to 1938, Gorokhov served as music director of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra. In 1941, he joined the faculty of the Eastman School of Music, where his string quartet transitioned under the school's patronage.

The Street Violinist Experiment

During the Great Depression, Gorokhov conducted a notable experiment to test the appeal of classical music by performing on the streets of New York City disguised as a homeless violinist. He collected $5.61, demonstrating the enduring power of music.

Legacy and Death

Mikhail Gorokhov died in 1956. His collection of sheet music, primarily for string ensembles, was bequeathed to the University of Rochester. The Gordon String Quartet continues to perform and inspire audiences today.