artists

“For me, being an artist has always been, above all, about communication. Ilona’s initiative to introduce GetClassical In School is a fantastic way to bring artists exactly where they ought to be; directly in the classroom exchanging ideas with future generations. I look forward to participating in GetClassical In School whenever possible!”

"YES, absolutely Ilona, I will be honored to be on board with this great project. I did partake at Rhapsody in School in Germany and will love to partake in New York at GetClassical In School, bringing classical music to the classroom."

"I welcome Ilona’s initiative GetClassical In School and will be happy to partake when in New York. Everything for Kids!"

"We are happy and excited to be part of GetClassical In School, a wonderful initiative, which is such an important mission for our community. Music is extremely vital for every child’s education and with the seeming decline in the interest of public schools, we, as musicians, need to make it our responsibility to support the growth and development of music within every child’s upbringing. We need to build a platform in New York, mirroring the already successful initiative of Rhapsody in School in Germany. Thank you for this great endeavor, Ilona!"

“Ilona’s initiative is gravely important and most essential to furthering and inspiring potential in the young and upcoming generation of young people weather or not they will choose to take the long and beautiful journey as classical music artists. As a kid, I remember how vital the existence of being associated with some of the greatest musicians (such as Isaac Stern) was of utmost importance, inspiring me to work harder and opening up my horizons as a violinist. Having these incredible channels available as a young artist is beyond what can be thought in a classroom. Again I fully support this incredible initiative, and look forward to witnessing a great renaissance for the young generation and a newly found association with some of the greatest of artists today with our young with the leadership of GetClassical In School. This is a great chance and rare opportunity not to be missed.”

"It’s a great pleasure to join my friend, Ilona Oltuski in a tribute to GetClassical in School. A tribute not only to a wonderful initiative in music education, but its nobility of purpose means a great deal to me and it will always continue to remain so in the future."

"I love to come to schools, and perform the same repertoire I present in concert halls on tour, to children. Kids react amazingly to the complex and colorful worlds of the music I play. I believe that in order to fall in love with classical music there should be an initial impact, something they do not expect. That is why I never prepare easy or popular pieces for my school visits. I want them to remember the feeling of the astonishment and realization they have never heard anything like this before.
I am thrilled to partake in Ilona’s new initiative GetClassical In School here in New York, to reach out to the next generation and share my enthusiasm for classical music to wake these kids’ curiosity about classical music. Music is a journey, and an exciting one. These days, pop music, movies and computer games became so elaborate that in order to compete for attention artists should offer unforgettable experiences, something that would be memorable for its power, diversity and energy it brings."

“During my several years of participating with Rhapsody in School in Germany, I had the most meaningful encounters with young students, who were curious to learn – and hear – about my art. It’s not that young people are disinterested in classical music, it’s that someone has to inspire that initial spark, and that’s what these encounters are geared to do. Like many other musicians, I am committed to our positive role in society and believe that our engagement should not be limited to the concert performances alone but stimulate interest wherever possible. Of course, we musicians are busy all the time, but it’s so important and satisfying to reach out to the next generation – and often the kids I visited in the morning where present at the evening’s concert. Congratulations Ilona, for initiating an artist network to visit schools in New York now, with GetClassical In School. Sign me up please!”

“Bravo Ilona for Get Classical In School: an essential initiative! Music is a universal language, and the earlier we are exposed to it, the richer our lives are. Now more than ever, we all need music in our lives.”

“Classical music is this incredible art that is all at once greater than all humanity and also innate to the human heart and soul. llona’s initiative to help children get in touch with it is so important to raising a future generation of inspired, connected, and communicative citizens.”

“Ilona’s GetClassical is a very special platform for music lovers and musicians. You can always find out the latest highlights on the NY music scenes through her excellent articles. Her new efforts with GetClassical In School are tremendous. I have worked so beautifully with Ilona and looking forward for more!”

"Childhood experiences form us in a powerful way, therefore I am happy that the project GetClassical In School has found its way to bring the new generation of Americans closer to classical music. Ilona, I wish you to never tire in running this project and developing it further! I will be happy to partake when I am performing again in NYC.“