Heifetz, Jascha (1901–1987)

Russian-born US violinist. He was one of the great virtuosos of the 20th century. He first performed at the age of five, and before he was 17 had played in most European capitals, and in the USA, where he settled in 1917. He popularized a clear, unemotional delivery suited to radio and recordings.

He appeared in several Hollywood movies, played in a trio with Artur Rubenstein and Grigor Piatigorsky, and after returning from the concert stage taught several violinists including Eugene Fodor.