Music Traveler is delighted to welcome Avi Avital. Born on October 19, 1978, in Be'er Sheva, Israel, Avi has been captivating audiences worldwide with his exceptional talent and innovative approach to the mandolin.
From a young age, Avi demonstrated remarkable skill on the mandolin, performing with local orchestras by the age of eight. His formal training at the Jerusalem Academy of Music and the Cesare Pollini Conservatory of Music in Padua, Italy, under the sponsorship of the America-Israel Cultural Foundation, refined his talent and broadened his musical horizons. Avi's focus on mandolin transcriptions, particularly those originally composed for other instruments, has set him apart in the classical music world.
Avi's performance career is distinguished by appearances at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Berlin Philharmonie, and the Forbidden City Concert Hall in Beijing. He has collaborated with international orchestras and chamber groups, including a notable tour with the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and performances with the Geneva Camerata.
Avi's contributions to music have been recognized with a Grammy nomination for Best Instrumental Soloist with Ensemble and numerous awards, including Israel's Aviv Competition and Germany's ECHO Prize. His recording debut, "Bach," released in 2012, showcases his virtuosity and innovative approach to classical music.
Avi Avital's mission to enhance the mandolin's presence in the classical music scene is evident through his efforts to expand the instrument's repertoire. He has added approximately 90 new pieces to the mandolin's repertoire, showcasing the instrument's versatility and bridging the gap between classical and folk music traditions. His work with world music and jazz musicians further enriches his contributions to the mandolin's legacy.
As an Ambassador for Music Traveler, Avi Avital brings his groundbreaking talent, passion for innovation, and commitment to expanding the musical possibilities of the mandolin. We are honored to have him join our community, where his influence will undoubtedly inspire musicians and music lovers alike.