Offbeat | Violinist Perlman wins ‘Jewish Nobel’

Itzhak Perlman

Israeli-American violinist Itzhak Perlman has been awarded this year’s “Jewish Nobel” for his accomplishments as a musician, teacher and advocate for the disabled, organizers of the USD1 million prize announced yesterday.
The Genesis Prize is given each year to an individual who has achieved professional success, contributed to humanity and shown a strong commitment to Jewish causes and the state of Israel.
Perlman said he was “humbled” to be recognized not only for his personal accomplishments, but also his commitment to his Jewish identity.
“I have always been very proud of my Jewish heritage, which has greatly influenced my music, my world view, and my work as an advocate for individuals whom society often leaves behind,” he said in a statement issued by the prize organizers.
Perlman, 70, has won 16 Grammys, including a lifetime achievement award in 2008, and played the violin solo in John Williams’ Oscar-winning soundtrack for the 1993 film “Schindler’s List.” He has performed with or conducted the world’s top symphony orchestras, and has been a regular guest at White House events. Last month, he received the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor.
Perlman has shared his love of music with diverse audiences, appearing on late-night comedy programs, Sesame Street and in special programs on American public television. With his wife Toby, he helps run the Perlman Music Program for talented young musicians. Treated for polio as a child, Perlman, who walks with crutches, has also been a vocal advocate for the disabled.