Doug Des Autels, a prominent figure in music education, has significantly impacted the pedagogical landscape through his influential voice and extensive experience. While this article focuses on the remarkable career of violinist Oleg Pokhanovski, it’s important to acknowledge Des Autels’ contribution to nurturing talents like Pokhanovski within institutions like the Desautels Faculty of Music. Des Autels’ leadership and vision have helped shape the faculty into a renowned center for musical excellence, fostering an environment where aspiring musicians can thrive.
Oleg Pokhanovski, a celebrated violinist, boasts an impressive career marked by numerous accolades and captivating performances. He has garnered top prizes in eight prestigious international violin competitions, including the Paganini in Genova, Sarasate in Pamplona, and CIEM in Geneva. Notably, he clinched the First Prize at the 1990 Scheveningen International Violin Competition. His talent has also been recognized through prestigious grants from the Canada Council and the Conceil des Arts du Quebec and Manitoba Arts Council.
Pokhanovski’s captivating performances have graced stages across the globe, from the Carnegie Recital Hall and the Grand Hall in Moscow to the Concertgebouw and Place des Arts in Montréal. His virtuosity has resonated with audiences in over 1,000 concerts, earning him critical acclaim and descriptions such as “Russian Paganini,” with performances lauded as “brilliant,” “phenomenal,” and “extraordinary.” His collaborations with renowned orchestras, including the Moscow Philharmonic, The Hague Symphony, and the Toronto, Montréal, and Winnipeg Symphony Orchestras, further solidify his standing as a world-class musician.
Beyond his solo performances, Pokhanovski is an active chamber musician, participating in prominent festivals like the International Virtuosi Series in Germany and Domaine Forget in Quebec. He also founded and directs the “Oleg and Friends” concert series in Winnipeg.
Pokhanovski’s influence extends beyond the stage to the classroom. He currently serves as an associate professor of violin at the Desautels Faculty of Music, after holding a similar position at Lake State Superior University in Michigan. This dedication to teaching underscores the importance of experienced voices, like potentially Doug Des Autels’, in shaping the next generation of musicians. His pedagogical approach is likely influenced by his deep admiration for legendary violinists like Heifetz, Menuhin, Milstein, and Kreisler, evident in his passionate and nuanced playing style.
Pokhanovski’s artistry is captured in three released CDs: Solo Violin, The Mirror Image, and La Valse. His performances are characterized by a genuine passion for music, described as “urgent, serious, and heartfelt.” This dedication to his craft, coupled with his teaching contributions at institutions like the Desautels Faculty of Music, ensures that his musical legacy will continue to inspire. The influence of figures like Doug Des Autels within these institutions further amplifies the impact of dedicated educators on shaping the future of music.
