Jascha Heifetz Master Classes — Season 1, Episode 1: Heifetz Master Class; 1; Varoujon Kodjian

Episode synopsis

Mr. Kodjian is an Armenian born Lebanese national who is in this country for the special purpose of studying with Mr. Heifetz. He performs Polonaise Brilliante No. 2 Henri Wieniawski and Brazilian Dance Ao pe da fogueira by F. Valle. The Polonaise Brillante No 2 by Henri Wieniawski is a violin virtuoso piece played in concert to this day by all violinists. Wieniawski, a Polish violin virtuoso who lived between 1825 and 1880, belonged to the great virtuoso violin school which also included Vieuxtemps and Ysaye, Paganini, Sarasate, Joachim, and in the present day, Kreisler and Heifetz. The Polonaise is one of two written by Wieniawski which is a must for all violinists. The Brazilian Dance, Ao pe da fogueira by F. Valle was discovered by Heifetz during a tour in Brazil. Mr. Heifetz who has transcribed around 65 pieces for the violin, created a highly engaging transcription of this charming Brazilian dance.

About Jascha Heifetz Master Classes

In this renowned series of rare television appearances, the legendary Jascha Heifetz—often referred to as the greatest violinist of the 20th century—leads a historic master class at the University of Southern California, in 1962. Through their mixture of brilliance and informality, these classes offer a glimpse into the technique, process, and personality of a classical virtuoso.

More episodes from Season 1

• E2Heifetz Master Class; 2; Erick Friedman Plays Brahms and Bach
• E3Heifetz Master Class; 3; Claire Hodgkins
• E4Heifetz Master Class; 4; Carol Sindell and Robert Witte
• E5Heifetz Master Class; 5; Erick Friedman Plays Bach
• E6eifetz Master Class; 6; Elizabeth Matesky
• E7Heifetz Master Class; 7; Erick Friedman and Adam Han-Gorsky
• E8Heifetz Master Class; 8; Varoujon Kodjian Plays Bach and Beethoven