Maxim Rysanov Named an Associate Artist of the Yehudi Menuhin School

The role, which has been created specifically for Rysanov, will see him work with students in number of capacities

The Ukrainian-British violist and conductor Maxim Rysanov has been named as the Yehudi Menuhin School's (YMS) first-ever Associate Artist. The title will see Rysanov visit the school several times a year, during which he will give masterclasses, coach the students in chamber music, and appear as the guest conductor of the Senior Orchestra.

Born in eastern Ukraine, Rysanov studied in Moscow and at London's Guildhall School. Since that time he has appeared as a soloist with Mariinsky Orchestra, Russian National Orchestra, and BBC Symphony Orchestra, among others. Alongside his career as a violist he also studied conducting with Alan Hazeldine, and has worked with orchestras both across Europe and in the United Kingdom.

Founded in 1963 by the British violinist Yehudi Menuhin, the YMS aims to provide an environment where musically capable children can focus on honing their craft, regardless of their financial background. Violinists Nicola Benedetti, Alina Ibragimova, Tasmin Little, and Nigel Kennedy all spent time at the YMS in their younger years.

"I have known and worked with Max for many years and am thrilled that he is entering into this partnership with YMS," said Ashley Wass, the school's Director of Music.

"He is a wonderful violist and an extraordinary musician, and the diversity of his career sets a great example to our students. I’ve no doubt that he will prove to be a huge source of inspiration to them, creating memories and experiences which will help to shape their musical lives."

"I am really looking forward to working with the young musicians of The Yehudi Menuhin School," Rysanov said.

"Through specialized education, those children selected to be pupils are destined to become the powerful musical forces of their generation, and the prospect of supporting their musical development is incredibly exciting."