SF State Professor Jassen Todorov and Russian pianist Alexander Pokidchenko perform violin and piano sonatas in honor of the 250th anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s birth.
Jassen Todorov
Jassen Todorov has distinguished himself as one of the most prominent violinists of his generation. Dubbed “an outstanding violinist … a player to watch” by British music journal The Strad, Todorov has given numerous performances throughout Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas. A top prize winner of several national and international competitions, he earned his bachelor’s degree from the Harid Conservatory and his master’s degree from the Eastman School of Music.
Todorov is a professor of violin at San Francisco State University. He is also an accomplished photographer and the grand prize winner of the 2018 National Geographic Photo Contest. His images have been published by numerous magazines and newspapers, and have been exhibited at the Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Somerset House in London and Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh. An active pilot, he holds a commercial pilot’s license and flight instructor certificate.
Alexander Pokidchenko
Described as “…one of the most talented composers…” Alexander Pokidchenko is a dynamic and multifaceted performer, composer, arranger and singer. He has presented solo and collaborative recitals in Russia, Ukraine, Portugal, Germany, Austria, France Bulgaria and the United States. In addition to performing, he often recites poems by Pushkin, Balmont, Chekhov and Henri as well as Indian and Persian poetry.
Born in Rostov on Don, Russia, Pokidchenko graduated from the Tchaikovsky Music Conservatory in Moscow, studying composition with Chulaki and Nikolaev. Top prize winner of several national and international competitions, Pokidchenko was the author and anchor of a television show, “With love to Music,” and in 2007 was awarded the title of “Honored” Artist of the Russian Federation. He is a member of the Russian Composers’ Union.