The youngest violinist to make a 21st century debut in Carnegie Hall

“Violinist and composer Paco Montalvo achieved a great milestone on April 24, 2011 when he debuted in the iconic Carnegie Hall in New York City at age 18. He was accompanied by the New England Symphonic Orchestra, which was conducted by British composer John Rutter. Montalvo performed Violin Concerto No.1 by Paganini. His technical mastery of the violin and his interpretive maturity were highlighted by American critics, which praised Montalvo as a “brilliant musician” and reported that “his solos resonated with the New York public.” He was rewarded with a standing ovation. He is the first soloist of the 21st century to debut in the Stern Auditorium on the Perelman Stage at such a young age. It was a legendary performance of one of the greatest works in the violin repertoire.”

Review: RITMO

Two Historic Debuts at Carnegie Hall

Itzhak Perlman, 1963 and Paco Montalvo, 2011

“In 1963, Itzhak Perlman debuted in the mythical New York City auditorium, Carnegie Hall, at the age of 18. Last year, Paco Montalvo made a decisive leap ahead in his career as an international soloist with a debut on the same stage and at the same age. I think Leo Brouwer of the Córdoba Journal sums it up best, saying simply (yet accurately): “Paco Montalvo is a genius.” I could not agree more. This young man has accomplished more in his 18 years than many musicians dream of accomplishing in their entire careers. He is destined for greatness, that much is clear.”

Critique: John Walters