Ivry Gitlis 1922 – 2020

Biography

Ivry Gitlis was born on August 25, 1922, in Haifa, where his musical gifts began to flourish during the formative years of his life. A distinguished violinist, Gitlis would go on to develop a career devoted to his instrument, bringing his artistry to audiences across Europe and beyond. His dedication to music became the defining legacy of his life, shaping both his professional pursuits and personal identity throughout the decades.

Living much of his life in France, Gitlis became an integral part of the European musical landscape, where he continued to perform and refine his craft. He made Paris his home for many years, establishing himself within a vibrant cultural community that valued artistic excellence and innovation. His presence in the French capital reflected the enduring connection between Israeli artists and the continent’s rich musical heritage.

Gitlis passed away on December 24, 2020, in the 3rd arrondissement of Paris, at an advanced age. He was laid to rest at Père Lachaise Cemetery in Ménilmontant, one of Paris’s most distinguished burial grounds, where countless notable figures from art, music, and culture have been honored. His final resting place stands as a testament to a life deeply embedded in the world of music and the Franco-Israeli cultural exchange.