Celebrated for a catalogue of incredible recordings, including the soundtracks to Disney’s The Lion King and Space Jam: A New Legacy, as well as for his leadership on the orchestral stage with major ensembles like the New York Philharmonic, the Philadelphia Orchestra, Toronto Symphony, and St. Louis Symphony, violist Michael Casimir joins Boston Conservatory’s String Masters Series along with frequent guest pianist Tae Kim, to offer an exciting recital of works for viola and piano.
String Masters Series is artistically directed by Andrew Mark and part of Boston Conservatory at Berklee’s Artistry in Action Series.
Program Information
About the Artist
Michael Casimir graces the stage as a member of the viola section of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, following a standout year as principal violist with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra in 2022. He is no stranger to accolades, having secured second place in the prestigious 2015 Sphinx Competition and clinched the grand prize at the esteemed 2013 Hudson Valley String Competition.
His musical odyssey began at the Juilliard School, mentored by Heidi Castleman and Misha Amory, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He further honed his craft at the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music under the guidance of luminaries like Roberto Díaz, Hsin-Yun Huang, and Ed Gazouleas. Beyond academia, Casimir has performed with many renowned ensembles, including the New York Philharmonic, the Philadelphia Orchestra, and the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra during his tenure at Curtis.
A dedicated advocate for musical education, he has mentored high school students in Philadelphia and conducted the string ensemble at Normandy High School in St. Louis. In 2021, he assumed the esteemed position of orchestra director at Lindenwood University, further cementing his commitment to fostering young talent.
In 2023, he expanded his musical horizons, serving as a faculty member at the Heifetz Institute, performing as a guest artist at the Greenwood Music Camp, and taking on the role of principal viola in the Mainly Mozart Orchestra during the summer. Casimir’s recording credits include Disney’s 2019 The Lion King soundtrack and the captivating Space Jam: A New Legacy. He is equally passionate about solo and chamber music projects, embracing the art of playing, recording, filming, and editing.
In his harmonious blend of talent and commitment, Casimir embodies the essence of a consummate artist, a guardian of classical tradition, and an innovator in the world of music. His journey, adorned with accolades and unwavering dedication, continues to inspire the realm of classical music and beyond.
About the Series
String Masters Series is artistically directed by Andrew Mark and part of Boston Conservatory at Berklee’s Artistry in Action series. The Artistry in Action series celebrates exceptional artists and initiatives that exemplify Boston Conservatory’s core values of excellence, innovation, and community engagement. Hosted by the Conservatory’s Music Division, Artistry in Action brings together the school’s prestigious and long-standing Piano Masters Series, String Masters Series, and Faculty Chamber Series with exciting new programming for winds, faculty recitals, and ensemble-in-residences. Learn more and view upcoming Artistry in Action events. Concert Services Staff
Assistant Director, Concert Services – Luis Herrera
Coordinator, Concert Services – Matthew Carey
Concert Production Manager – Kendall Floyd
Performance Technology Technicians – Sara Pagiaro, Goran Daskalov
Performance Technology Specialist – Andrei Radu
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