String Theory

Vadim Bezkrovnij has agreed to create Southwestern College's first symphonic chamber orchestra, but there are strings attached. Lots of strings. A whole section of them.

A world-class violinist himself, Bezkrovnij began working at SWC in 2005, by resurrecting the string class and founding SWC's first string quartet.

As his class grew, Bezkrovnij trained enough musicians for a chamber orchestra.

He said his goal is to form a full-sized symphony orchestra to play Beethoven and Mozart at SWC. This may seem ambitious at a school that traditionally has been forced to hire outside musicians to accompany its well-regarded concert choir.

Dr. Terry Russell, director of choral activities, is pulling for Bezkrovnij to succeed.

Bezkrovnij said he teaches students who want to learn and to spread the word about classical music.

"Classic music is for everyone," he said.

Music major Soran Dalawi is one of Bezkrovnij's rising students. A long -time guitarist, Dalawi picked up the violin and after only four months' study, made it into the SWC chamber orchestra.

Bezkrovnij said Dalawi is gifted, but the student gives credit to the teacher.

"His method of teaching is very effective, practical and inspiring," said Dalawi.

"I've always had a subconscious passion for classical music and the violin. Now it has become a reality thanks to Vadim's influence and teachings. Up until last July I would have never thought to actually play the violin, now it's something I'll never stop doing," he said.

Bezkrovnij knows the feeling. He has performed all around the world, including Latvia, to Moscow (where he earned his Ph.D.) Taiwan and Mexico, where he was a nominated for a Latin Grammy. He also played in the San Diego Chamber Orchestra.

Bezkrovnij has taught students who now hold positions with the Boston Lyric Opera, the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra and the Dallas Symphony.

"Music is very important," he said. "Without music you can't live. That's why I started this program, to make people happy and less stressed."

He said the orchestra is growing, but it is not easy to find dedicated musicians.

"It takes a unique personality, a very positive and encouraging teacher for that program," said Russell. "The reason he has found so much talent is because he has the energy, encouragement and enthusiasm."

SWC's first chamber orchestra performed with the SWC Choir on May 1 in Mayan Hall. Bezkrovnij was easy to find. He was the man in the front with the small baton and big smile.

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