KSO's Zelmanovich to retire

After 24 years, Mark Zelmanovich is stepping down as the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra's concertmaster.

Following his retirement, which becomes effective Aug. 31, 2010, Zelmanovich will be honored with the title of "concertmaster emeritus," the first time the title has been bestowed in the history of the KSO.

Zelmanovich joined the KSO as concertmaster in 1986 when he immigrated from Israel to take the position and to teach violin at the University of Tennessee.

He was born in western Russia, where he began his musical studies at the age of 7. He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in conservatories in Moscow, where he also did postgraduate work.

In 1972, Zelmanovich and his family immigrated to Israel where he joined the Israel Philharmonic, performing under many of the 20th century's leading conductors.

"I decided to retire in 2010 because it's 50 years of playing in orchestras," Zelmanovich said. "That's enough. I've played the entire repertoire and played for the world's great conductors."

He will continue his teaching position at UT as associate professor and artist in residence, as well as performing and teaching at the Chautauqua International Music Festival in New York, where he has been on the faculty for 20 years.

During Zelmanovich's tenure, he has helped in the growth and development of the KSO into one of the region's best orchestras.

"I think now we are very good," he said. "We have good players and the orchestra is financially in good shape. I will miss my colleagues," he said. "It is like a family."

Lucas Richman, KSO music director, recalled his delight when he came to Knoxville to "find at the head of the KSO string section a concertmaster with such an extraordinary depth of experience, style and musical knowledge.

"He will be leaving the institution with the legacy of his fine leadership and the utmost of respect from colleagues, friends and audience members."

The KSO will celebrate Zelmanovich and his efforts with the orchestra at the upcoming Masterworks concerts Jan. 14-15.

He will also be the featured soloist at the Knoxville Symphony Chamber Orchestra's May 2010 concert in which he will perform Tchaikovsky's "Meditation."

Harold Duckett is a freelance contributor to the News Sentinel.

© 2009, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
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