The MTT Files - Program 5: The Last Virtuoso

Jascha Heifetz was arguably the last great violin virtuoso – the end of a line.

In this program, MTT examines why Heifetz was so good, and asks whether any violinist living today could ever hope to match his incredible technical ability and immense musicality. What’s changed? What is virtuosity, and why is it so hard to maintain? Featured is an interview/demonstration recorded on the stage of Davies Symphony Hall with Alexander Barantschik, the Concertmaster of the San Francisco Symphony, who now plays Heifetz’s Guarnerius violin.

This is the 5th episode in The MTT Files radio series.