Who Is David Garrett?

David Garrett is a German classical violinist and composer who has revolutionized classical music. Born David Christian Bongartz in Aachen, Germany in 1980, he rose to fame as a child prodigy and continues to tour the world playing to sold-out crowds. He has collaborated with some of the world’s most renowned musicians, including Eros Ramazzotti, Vanessa Mae and Sarah Brightman.

Early Life

At the age of four, Garrett began playing the violin. He received his first lessons from his father, a conductor for a military band in Germany. At eight years old, he was accepted into the Royal Music Academy of Brussels, where he studied for three years before moving to London to study under Itzhak Perlman at the Juilliard School at age 11. By 13, he had already made his debut with the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

Career Highlights

Garrett has released several albums of classical music as well as two rock albums. He has also performed in some of the world's most prestigious concert halls such as Carnegie Hall in New York City and Musikverein in Vienna. He has also recorded with some of the world's most acclaimed orchestras including the London Symphony Orchestra and Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. In 2012, he was appointed International Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF.

Awards & Achievements

Garrett has won numerous awards including Ancora Award for Best Debut Album (2007), ECHO Klassik Award for Instrumentalist of the Year (2008) and Grammy Award for Best Classical Crossover Album (2012). He also holds several Guinness World Records including Fastest Violinist in The World (2008) and Fastest Classical Violinist (2010).

Personal Life

Garrett is currently married to his manager, Katia Ivanova. He is an avid supporter of UNICEF and the Red Cross. In his spare time, he enjoys surfing and skiing.