Isaac Stern:

Known as one of the leading violinists of the 20th century, Isaac Stern has played for symphonies and orchestras and has performed many concerts and recitals. For more than five decades, Stern has used his musical genius to entertain audiences worldwide.

Born in Russia in 1920, Stern is considered an American violinist. His parents brought him to America when he was ten months old. He grew up in San Francisco and was educated in the public school system. His musical career began at eight when he was given violin lessons at home. He eventually came to be taught by Naourn Blinder, the conductor of the San Francisco Symphony. At the age of 13, Stern played his first recital.

In 1936, Stern made his first professional debut with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra. The nationally broadcast concert was the Brahms Violin Concerto with Pierre Monteux as the conductor. Following his debut, he played at the Town Hall in New York in 1937, and finally at Carnegie Hall in 1943. For three decades, Stern traveled nationwide performing solo and with symphonies and orchestras. In 1961, he formed a trio with cellist Leonard Rose and pianist Eugene Istomin.