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Portnoff

Leo Portnoff (1875-1940) was a Ukrainian-born composer, violinist, and esteemed pedagogue.  Born in Kiev, he honed his musical talents in Berlin under the tutelage of renowned violinists Joachim and Wirth.  Portnoff's career flourished in Germany, where he held teaching positions at the Klindworth-Scharwenka Conservatory and later achieved the status of Professor at the Stern Conservatory.

Disrupted by the First World War, Portnoff transitioned to conducting before immigrating to the United States in 1922. He initially settled in Brooklyn, New York, but eventually found his home in Florida, where he became Head of Violin at the University of Miami.

Portnoff's legacy lies in his dedication to teaching and composition.  He crafted numerous works specifically for his students, including 19 violin concertinos and 4 Russian Fantasias. These pieces remain popular choices for aspiring violinists today, ensuring that Portnoff's influence on music education endures.

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