artists
We invite international performing artists of the highest caliber who share our vision to lead sessions in schools and online. Every one of them has unique expertise in the world of classical music they share with the students of our partnering schools.
Aaron Petit
Pianist
“As a child, I was never exposed to classical music. The first piece I ever heard was Horowitz Playing Chopin’s Polonaise in A-Flat at Age 12. It was then that I started to play the piano. Ten years later, at age 22, I have managed to largely catch up with the others in my field who started at age 3-8. Yet, I often wish I would have known about the world of Classical Music at a younger age. I wonder where I would have been today, with an additional 5 or more years of experience already. What is so amazing about GetClassical In School, is that Mrs. Oltuski is providing the very opportunity to the youth that I wish I would have had as a child- getting exposure to the greatest music ever written, performed at an immensely high level. I am so honored and excited to be a part of this organization and continue the legacy of the great composers by inspiring the next generation to appreciate and perform classical music.”
Adam Golka
Pianist
"It’s a beautiful initiative, Ilona, congratulations and thanks for all your hard work."
Adam Jackson
Pianist
Since my very first piano lesson, I have been fortunate to meet, work with, and be inspired by so many amazing people. They generously shared their passion for music with me. Now, thanks to Ms. Oltuski’s invitation to join her GetClassical in School initiative, I have the opportunity to share my own passion for classical music with people of my age and younger, who perhaps haven’t discovered yet its beauty.
I am immensely grateful to Ms. Oltuski for the chance to spark excitement for the classics, and to encourage younger people to listen and participate in live performances
Adrienne Danrich
Soprano
"Music is such an important part of the human experience. It is as essential to our existence as food, water and shelter—the most basic of our needs. I am so honored to join Get Classical in Schools to bring this multi-dimensional art form to Young Ones who might not otherwise be exposed to the beautiful, soul-rending power of Classical music. To have the opportunity to share my voice with our future music makers, audience members, impresarios’ and more, is a truly humbling yet vital part of my personal mission as an artist. Thank you so much, Ilona for including me on this journey."
Albert Cano Smits
Pianist
“I feel that GetClassical In School provides a way to make a very essential facet of what we do in our life as artists possible; which is to share this gift of music with everyone, no matter their background or life story. And it’s done with the most genuine enthusiasm and spirit, fulfilling the need that has become so evident in today’s polarized communities.”
Aleksey Igudesman
Violinist, Conductor, Comedian, Entrepreneur
"Bringing classical music into the class room is an incredibly important mission. Ilona’s initiative GetClassical In School is a great necessity. Introducing the young generation to music will undoubtably change future society for the better. It is proven that children will learn faster and are generally happier with music in their life. Bravo Ilona, bravo GetClassical In School!"
Alessio Bax
Pianist
“Initiatives, like Ilona’s GetClassical In School are essential today, more than ever, not only to ensure the future of classical music, but also to initiate and encourage an open dialogue through the only real universal language, the arts. Classical music in particular has the capability to inspire young people and serve as a role model for the ideal citizen: one with an independent voice but able and willing to work together with others for a greater goal. it is a logical and imperative step that a city as culturally vibrant and varied as New York, relies on classical music as part of a child’s education and upbringing. “
Alex Weiser
Composer, Curator, Director of Public Programs of The YIVO Institute for Jewish Research
"As a composer, concert curator, and music educator I commend Ilona Oltuski’s GetClassical In School initiative. An intimate encounter with music can be a singular and revelatory experience which should be available to all children, regardless of socio-economic backgrounds. By the same token, the chance to play for curious children can offer meaningful experiences for musicians that expand their sense of purpose with which they make music and curate concerts. There is simply no substitute for the inspiration for all parties that can stem from these kind of interactions."
Alexander Bedenko
Clarinetist
"I feel very excited and motivated to participate in the GetClassical In School project. It is the most rewarding feeling to share your experience and to inspire the young generation to explore the world of music".
Alexander Boldachev
Harpist
“Get worthy, get prosper, get classical. Ilona Oltuski created a union, shining through the flurry of modern time noise. The Platform Get Classical is a guardian of the music. Choosing the best for every pair of ears, giving the opportunity to the artists, to show their passion and addiction to the art. Every single project in the past 10 years was just another step forward and now with a forest of great musicians, Get Classical can do more, propose unique combinations and bold events. The school project is preparing the ultimate new generation, which will not repeat our mistakes and turn the world to the better side, where everybody and every music has an important place.”
Alexander Fiterstein
Clarinetist
"Looks like a lovely project, Ilona. I would love to partake in GetClassical In School, bringing classical to the classroom."
Alexandra Joan
Pianist
“I was lucky to grow up with parents who are professional musicians. The reason why I became a musician, and most importantly why I still feel the deepest love for music is because I was exposed to wonderful music performed at the highest level at a very young age. I can only applaud Ilona’s wonderful project to bring young professional musicians in the classroom to interact with children. This can be a groundbreaking experience for them on so many levels. Engaging young people emotionally and intellectually through music is one of the most rewarding experiences there could be! Thank you Ilona and Get Classical in School!”