George Enescu His influence as a violinist and pedagogue

Abstract

George Enescu, a timeless figure in music history, inspired me to write this thesis. His statement "perfection…..does not interest me. What is important in art is to vibrate oneself and make others vibrate" truly captivated me. His pedagogy seemed to be unlike any other teachers that are known today. Enescu’s intuitive artistry and his self-effacing approach to music making identify him as a special musician. His life, playing style and instrumental characteristics, his pedagogy and legacy are investigated in this thesis. I argue that the holistic characteristic of the comprehensive musician Enescu should inform contemporary approaches to violin performance and violin pedagogy and are able to contribute to a more authentic and truthful way of music making.