Rivka Golani
Israel- Early Life and Education
- Emigration and Career
- Repertoire
- Teaching Career
- Notable Accomplishments
- Other Interests
Early Life and Education
Rivka Golani, an Israeli, Canadian, and British violist, was born in Tel Aviv, Israel. Her musical journey began at the Rubin Academy of Music at Tel Aviv University, where she studied from 1965 to 1971.
Emigration and Career
In 1974, Golani relocated to Canada and became a Canadian citizen in 1983. Her career flourished in Canada, where she gained recognition as one of the world's leading violists. In 1987, she moved to London with her husband, conductor Thomas Sanderling, and acquired British citizenship in 1997.
Repertoire
Golani's vast repertoire encompassed works by Bach, Schumann, Berlioz, Brahms, Elgar, Britten, Martinů, Prokofiev, and Shostakovich. She collaborated extensively with contemporary composers such as Heinz Holliger, Bernd Alois Zimmermann, Yōji Yuasa, and Marjan Mozetič, who created over 200 compositions dedicated to her.
Teaching Career
In addition to her performing career, Golani was an esteemed pedagogue. She taught at the University of Toronto, the Royal Academy of Music in London, the Birmingham Conservatoire, and the Trinity College of Music in London.
Notable Accomplishments
Golani's exceptional talent earned her accolades from critics and audiences alike. BBC magazine ranked her among the top five violists of her time. She performed with renowned orchestras worldwide, including the Berlin Philharmonic, the New York Philharmonic, and the London Symphony Orchestra.
Other Interests
Beyond music, Golani pursued her passion for art. Her paintings were exhibited in various galleries in Israel, Canada, and Europe. Additionally, she played an alt violin designed specifically for her by her first husband, lutenist Otto Erdös.
