PETR DELNOV, viola

Petr began his musical studies at age 7, in Ekaterinburg (Sverdlovsk, in Soviet time) -- a major Siberian city. To the traditional set of favorite composers (from Bach to Shostakovich) he adds Hindemith (the second orchestra violist to do so!). Talk about contentment in life -- Petr's childhood aspirations were to be a musician, and in his "next life" he would like to remain himself. Of hobbies, Petr lists sports (avid runner) and drawing.

Petr is clear and precise describing his musical idols, listing just one in each category -- his viola teacher, Boguslavsky, among contemporaries, and Oistrakh from past generations.