“When Sebastian Lang-Lessing invited violinist Vadim Gluzman to take part in a new project connecting top-flight musicians with students for one-on-one online master classes, the musician [became] one of dozens of classical musicians around the globe whom Lang-Lessing has enlisted for VirtuMasterClass, which launched in July,” writes Deborah Martin in Wednesday’s (8/12) San Antonio Express News (TX). “The ever-growing roster includes pianists, cellists, violinists, violists and—for tango enthusiasts—a lone bandoneón player…. Part of the impetus for the site is Lang-Lessing’s desire to help solo musicians [during] COVID-19. But his larger goal is to make sure younger musicians … continue developing their talents. ‘These are all wonderful artists who came through San Antonio,’ said Lang-Lessing, who just ended a decadelong run as music director of the San Antonio Symphony…. Mark Kosower, principal cello with the Cleveland Orchestra … was instantly taken with the idea behind VirtuMasterClass [and] is in the process of scheduling his first VirtuMasterClass sessions…. Lang-Lessing has focused most of his energy since April on developing the VirtuMasterClass…. Working on it helped him get through the pain of the San Antonio Symphony’s decision to cancel performances through January. ‘It’s therapeutic,’ he said.”
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