BJH: Yonatan, tell us about your musical journey. How did you first become interested in the violin?
Yonatan Grinberg: It’s an interesting story. When I was four, a lady came to my kindergarten and demonstrated different instruments. I heard the violin and immediately told my mother, “I need to play violin!” But it took her three years to take me seriously. I started lessons at seven, and contrary to what many might think, I wasn’t a child prodigy. I was actually more interested in soccer at first.
BJH: How did you transition from a casual young musician to a professional violinist?
YG: Something clicked during my teenage years. I was at the Jerusalem Academy of Music High School and realized I was behind my peers. So I started practicing intensively – we’re talking early mornings, late nights, even during summer vacations. I was determined to catch up and truly become a musician.
BJH: Being an observant Jew, how challenging is it to pursue a career in classical music?
YG: It’s incredibly challenging. Most orchestra performances are on Shabbos, I can’t play in churches, and typical wedding gigs are off-limits. This forced me to be creative. I founded Chamber Encounters, my own music organization, to create opportunities for myself and other musicians.
BJH: Tell us about your most meaningful musical project right now.
YG: I’m particularly excited about an upcoming concert called “Jews in Music: A Musical Response to Rising Anti-Semitism.” It’s a powerful program featuring works by Jewish composers from different periods, including those who were victims of the Holocaust. It’s my way of responding to historical anti-Semitism through music.
BJH: What makes your concerts different from traditional classical performances?
YG: I try to make classical music accessible. Our concerts are in a circular setup, and I always provide context before pieces. I explain the background, the composition, helping audiences truly understand and appreciate the music. Most people think they don’t like classical music, but I believe everyone can connect with it.
BJH: Do you think it’s possible for Orthodox musicians to pursue professional music careers?
YG: It’s challenging but not impossible. It requires extraordinary commitment and creativity. You have to be willing to create your own path. While reaching the highest levels of classical performance is difficult, achieving meaningful musical goals is absolutely possible.
BJH: Why did you choose to stay in Baltimore?
YG: Baltimore has something special – it has room for humans. Unlike big cities where urban systems control everything, Baltimore allows for creativity and personal growth. The Jewish community here is warm and diverse, offering a unique blend of small-town values and big-city amenities.
BJH: Any advice for young musicians, especially those from Orthodox backgrounds?
YG: Don’t stop practicing. Many people quit and then regret it later. Find supportive environments, be persistent, and be creative in overcoming challenges. Your passion and commitment can overcome many obstacles.
BJH: Where can people learn more about your music and upcoming performances?
YG: They can visit my website yonatangrinberg.com, follow me on social media as @yonatangrinbergviolin, or check out chamberencounters.eventbrite.com. We have upcoming concerts and programs that I’m really excited about.
