The Croatian cellist community is mourning the passing of one of their greatest cellists. Valter Despalj was Born in 1947.
Who was Valter Despalj?
Valter Despalj was a Croatian cellist, pedagogue, and composer. He was born in Zadar and was Albanian. Born in 1947, he studied cello with Leonard Rose and chamber music under the guidance of Felix Galimir and the Juilliard Quartet at Julliard.
He has won several awards, including the Vladimir Nazor Award in 2019, and is considered one of the most prominent Croatian cellists.
He has performed at festivals, including Lockenhaus, Kumho, Sydney Opera House, Carnegie Hall and Moscow Conservatory Hall.
Despalj has performed with some of the top orchestras in the world, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the Vienna Philharmonic, the Royal Philharmonic, and the Berlin Philharmonic.
He has also held several teaching positions at the Zagreb Music Academy and the Musikakademie Basel. As a composer, Despalj has written several works for cello, including the Concerto and orchestra and the Sonata for cello and piano.
Image Source – The Violin Channel
Valter Despalj cause of death?
Valter Despalj passed away on 9th April 2023 at the age of 76. One of his students posted the prominent Croatian cellist and artist’s death on social media.
Apart from being one of the best performers, he was also a dedicated teacher, sharing his love of music with students of all ages. He was well-known for his ability to bring out the best in his students during his many years of teaching.
He was passionate about fostering a culture of respect and appreciation for music and was a mentor to many aspiring musicians.
Remembering the great cellist
Many of his students paid tribute to him and expressed their grief at the passing of their beloved teacher. Many of his fans also extended their condolences to the family and students of Valter Despalj.
Many of his students considered him an eager, witty and creative teacher who would always challenge them to do their best. He would also support them in their time of need.
He also taught them humility and that music is all imaginable and unimaginable in this world. He was known to be a unique interpreter, arranger and instructor with amazing knowledge of music.
He was an esteemed music instructor, teaching cello at many prestigious music academies and schools. His students will remember him for his passion, dedication, and high standards.
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