Accomplished Violinist Joins Faculty

New England violinist Philip Ficsor will join Westmont’s faculty this fall as assistant professor of violin. Ficsor is a member of the American Double, a piano-violin duo which has been featured on concert series across the United States and Europe.

The American Double will soon release the first recording of William Bolcom's complete works for violin and piano. The Double worked with the Pulitzer Prize winner on each the compositions, including many first-time releases.

“The music faculty is delighted with the arrival of Dr. Ficsor and looks forward to working with him as he provides inspiration for our string and chamber music programs,” says Michael Shasberger, Adams professor of music and worship. “We have already made some exciting plans for collaborative performances that will be of great benefit to the Santa Barbara community.”

Ficsor recently earned his doctorate in violin performance from Boston University College of Fine Arts where he studied with Lynn Chang. He also holds degrees from both Yale University and the University of Michigan. He has been a violin instructor at the New England Conservatory Preparatory Division and the All Newton Music School.

While in Boston, he maintains an active schedule, including union membership in the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra under Benjamin Zander. In 2004, the Double performed a highly successful concert tour in Hungary.

Ficsor is committed to educational outreach and the American Double has held presentations and concerts at the Greenwood Music Camp in Easthampton, Mass. The Double will present a lecture and recital in September on Bolcom’s works for violin and piano at the College Music Society’s 48th annual national convention in San Antonio, Texas.