Kurt Nikkanen

Kurt Nikkanen is an acclaimed American violinist renowned for his natural and spontaneous expressiveness on the stage. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Nikkanen began his musical journey at the tender age of three, studying under the tutelage of Roman Totenberg and Jens Ellerman. His prodigious talent was evident early on, as he made his debut at Carnegie Hall with the New York Symphony at just twelve years old. Since then, Nikkanen has captivated audiences worldwide with his virtuosic performances, collaborating with esteemed conductors and orchestras such as Zubin Mehta, Vladimir Ashkenazy, and the Czech Philharmonic.

Nikkanen's repertoire spans a wide range of classical masterpieces, from the romantic concertos of Tchaikovsky and Dvořák to the intricate sonatas of Bartók. He has also championed contemporary works, notably premiering and recording Steven R. Gerber's violin concerto, composed specifically for him. Beyond his solo career, Nikkanen serves as the Concertmaster of the New York City Ballet Orchestra and is a dedicated educator, offering masterclasses and teaching at institutions like New York University. His recordings, including his acclaimed recital disc and collaborations with pianists like Rohan De Silva, showcase his technical brilliance and deep musicality, making him a standout figure in the classical music world.