Joseph Silverstein: The Virtuoso Violinist and Conductor

A Legacy of Musical Excellence

Joseph Silverstein was a renowned American violinist and conductor, celebrated for his technical mastery, expressive playing, and dedication to musical education. With a career spanning over six decades, Silverstein left an indelible mark on the world of classical music.

Early Life and Education

Born on March 21, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan, Silverstein began his musical journey under the guidance of his father, Bernard Silverstein, a public school music teacher. He demonstrated exceptional talent from an early age and was accepted into the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia at just 12 years old. There, he studied with esteemed teachers, including Efrem Zimbalist, D.C. Dounis, William Primrose, Josef Gingold, and Mischa Mischakoff.

Rise to Prominence

After graduating from Curtis in 1950, Silverstein embarked on a successful career as a section musician, performing with the Houston Symphony Orchestra, the Philadelphia Orchestra, and the Denver Symphony Orchestra. In 1955, he joined the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) as a second violinist, becoming the youngest musician in the orchestra at the time.

Awards and Accolades

Silverstein's talent and hard work earned him numerous accolades, including a silver medal at the Queen Elisabeth Music Competition in 1959 and the Naumburg Award from the Walter W. Naumburg Foundation in 1960.

Concertmaster and Conductor

In 1962, Silverstein was appointed concertmaster of the BSO, a position he held for 22 years. During this period, he also served as assistant conductor of the orchestra. His exceptional leadership and musicality led to his appointment as music director of the Utah Symphony from 1983 to 1998.

Teaching and Mentoring

Silverstein was an devoted educator, teaching at institutions such as the New England Conservatory, Yale University, and Boston University. He also served on the faculty of the Tanglewood Music Center and was a professor of violin at the Curtis Institute of Music.

Legacy and Impact

Throughout his career, Silverstein performed and recorded with esteemed ensembles and artists, leaving a lasting impact on the classical music world. His dedication to music education and his passion for inspiring future generations of musicians have ensured his legacy will continue to thrive.

Personal Milestones

• 1962: Appointed concertmaster of the Boston Symphony Orchestra
• 1971: Appointed assistant conductor of the Boston Symphony Orchestra
• 1983-1998: Music director of the Utah Symphony
• 2001: Acting music director of the Florida Philharmonic Orchestra
• 2007-2008: Artistic advisor to the Portland Symphony Orchestra

Remembering Joseph Silverstein

Joseph Silverstein passed away on November 21, 2015, leaving behind a legacy of musical excellence and a profound impact on the world of classical music. His contributions to the world of music continue to inspire and educate new generations of musicians and music lovers alike.