Ion Mazur is a professional violinist and violin teacher, and has been performing violin for the past 18 years with the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO). Since 1982 he has played violin as a soloist, with Chamber ensembles and within different orchestras in Asia, Europe and the US. During this time, he has also inspired and taught young violinists to develop the skill and passion for the instrument he has played since seven years of age. Playing in the MPO has enabled him to enrich his art within an environment of the highest international standing; and since 2016 he has also been teaching and mentoring violin at all levels, to children, young adults and mature players, from beginners through to child prodigies.
Much of his passion for performing and teaching violin stems from having studied with the legendary teacher Dorothy DeLay at the Juilliard School in New York for 3 years (1994-97), and the sheer joy and enthusiasm for music he has are translated into his teaching style – to inspire and stimulate his students to be great players. One of the best examples is the Malaysian Lee Hannah who won a Silver Medal at the Singapore Raffles Music Festival. His playing style has the warmth of the ‘Old Masters’ but is bound too with vibrant modern techniques, which he also tries to instill in his students.
Passion and love for music and people are reflected in his playing, creating memorable moments for audiences, and transporting listeners to magical “places”. He was also mentoring and teaching young violinists from the Malaysian Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (MPYO). The role of mentor and teacher of violin students became a real passion for him, benefiting his students and inspiring them to embrace learning and playing the violin with the same passion and commitment.