Elena Urioste

'The gifted young violinist Elena Urioste, In her Chicago Symphony Orchestra debut, charmed the audience with her lyrical sensitivity'.
John Von Rhein | Chicago Tribune

American violinist Elena Urioste, selected by Symphony magazine as an emerging artist to watch, has been hailed by critics and audiences alike for her rich tone, the nuanced lyricism of her playing, and her commanding stage presence. Since making her debut with the Philadelphia Orchestra aged 13, she has appeared as soloist with major orchestras throughout the United States including the Cleveland Orchestra, Boston Pops, National Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta, Detroit, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, New Mexico, and San Antonio Symphony Orchestras, as well as Hungary's Orchestra Dohnányi Budafok. In April 2010 Elena made her debut with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in a dazzling performance under the baton of Sir Mark Elder.

As first-place laureate of the Sphinx Competition, which supports and promotes Hispanic and African American classical musicians, she debuted at Carnegie Hall in 2004 and has returned annually to that esteemed venue's Stern Auditorium as soloist. In 2009, Elena also made her debut at Lincoln Center's Alice Tully Hall with award-winning conductor Alondra de la Parra.

Elena is a graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music where she studied with Joseph Silverstein, Pamela Frank and Ida Kavafian. She also completed graduate studies with Joel Smirnoff at The Juilliard School. Other notable teachers include David Cerone, Choong-Jin Chang, Soovin Kim, and the late Rafael Druian.

The Alessandro Gagliano violin, Naples, c. 1706, and Pierre Simon bow being used by Elena are on extended loan from the private collection of Dr. Charles E. King.

Through her LMM Award Elena made her UK debut at the Wigmore Hall in October 2009 and received a unique opportunity to perform with the Bridge Project students and the London Philharmonic Orchestra as part of their BrightSparks series at the Royal Festival Hall in June 2010. Elena also receives mentoring and career guidance from a team of highly regarded individuals at the Southbank Centre led by Marshall Marcus – Head of Music, Gillian Moore – Head of Contemporary Culture and Shân McLennon – Head of Education. Elena also receives the opportunity to work with students participating in the Bridge Project.

Elena is represented by Sciolino Artist Management.