Ali Al-Azzawi

Ali started learning cello at the age of 9, and after studying music at the High School for Music and Ballet in Baghdad, Iraq, continued his Cello studies in Russia.

He graduated with a Masters degree in Cello performing and teaching from the Russian State Academy of Music in Moscow by Professor B.I. Talalay (one of Mr. Rostropovich students).

Returning to Iraq, Ali joined the Iraqi National Symphony Orchestra as principal cellist. Later he moved to Jordan and started teaching Cello, chamber music and history of music at the National Music Conservatory and Jordan Academy of Music (private university). At this time Ali performed with overseas orchestras including the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra (USA), European Unity Symphony Orchestra (France). He performed as a soloist in Middle Eastern & European Countries. Ali has attended a master class in chamber music conducted by Mr. Yo-Yo Ma.

Since 2002 Ali has been living in New Zealand. He is teaching at the Corelli School of Arts, the Bays Music Centre and the Music Education Centre. He also performs for the Waitakere City Orchestra as principal cellist and has given many solo concerts in Auckland.

In addition to his musical skills, Ali holds a Bachelor of Russian Literature.

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