Gabriela Ledsham
Violin & AAM
About
Gabriela Demeterova, an acclaimed Czech-born British solo concert violinist, violist, teacher, and mentor, boasts an illustrious career that spans continents and musical genres. Her journey in music commenced at the age of three, and by five, she graced the public stage in Prague. Rooted in a rich classical music lineage, Gabriela inherited the Czech traditions of luminaries like Antonin Dvorak and Leos Janacek through her grandfather, the accomplished violinist Hynek Wolf. Notably, she became the first Czech finalist in the Yehudi Menuhin International Violin Competition in 1987 and went on to secure the overall victory in 1993, a feat unmatched by anyone else.
Gabriela's educational odyssey includes studying violin at The Prague Conservatoire under Prof. Nora Grumlikova, graduating in 1991. She further honed her skills at The Prague Academy of Performing Arts, earning a Master's Degree with Distinction in 1997. Her academic pursuits delved into Violin, Pedagogy, Psychology, and Pedagogy Method. Her Master's Degree thesis on Stage Fright received distinction. Gabriela later expanded her horizons at The Royal Academy of Music in Arhus, Denmark, completing a Postgraduate Degree with Distinction under Prof. Marta Libalova, known for her association with the legendary Ruggiero Ricci.
Throughout her studies, Gabriela participated in masterclasses worldwide, learning from eminent figures like Catherine Macintosh, John Holloway, Dora Schwarzberg, and Joseph Gingold. Notably, personal consultations with Sir Yehudi Menuhin, Ruggiero Ricci, Libor Pesek, and Josef Suk profoundly influenced her artistic growth as both a performer and educator.
Gabriela's performing experience spans Europe, the UK, the USA, South America, and Japan. Collaborating with renowned ensembles and conductors, she achieved milestones such as an exclusive contract with Supraphon Records after Antonin Dvorak's Violin Concerto in Prague's Rudolfinum. Her repertoire includes Sergei Prokofiev's Violin Concerto No. 1 and the European premiere of Erkki Sven-Tuur's Violin Concerto.
Beyond traditional performances, Gabriela collaborates with contemporary composers, engaging in crossover projects. Her versatility shines in collaborations with singer Noid, featuring a rendition of Sting's "Roxanne" from Moulin Rouge. The impact of her artistry is not confined to stages but extends to mentorship and education, evidenced by her founding roles in international music festivals and masterclasses. Gabriela Demeterova's enduring commitment to musical excellence and innovation continues to resonate globally, making her a luminary in the world of classical music.
