Chamber Music Magic
Mr. Roman Mekinulov Leads Masterclass at North High
by Cannon Brown
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Mr. Roman Mekinulov with North High Students
Mr. Roman Mekinulov, Principal Cellist of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO), brought his world-renowned expertise to Williamsville North High School in April, conducting a masterclass for the school’s string quartets. This special session, generously funded by the Williamsville Music Boosters, provided student musicians with valuable insight into chamber music.
Mr. Mekinulov, an accomplished musician with an international reputation, offered expert coaching to two of Williamsville North’s top chamber ensembles. Known for his dynamic presence and deep musical knowledge, Mekinulov emphasized the importance of nonverbal communication in ensemble playing—a crucial element in keeping music cohesive and expressive.
Originally from Russia, Mr. Mekinulov immigrated to the United States in 1989 and quickly made a name for himself in the classical music world. He has served as principal cellist at the Juilliard School, the Orquestra Sinfônica do Estado de São Paulo in Brazil, and has held his principal cellist position at the BPO since 2001. He is also the founder and artistic director of the Bravo International Chamber Music Workshop, chamber music intensive for middle and high school students in Western New York.
Williamsville North senior and Symphony Orchestra concertmaster Connor Brown, who has participated in the Bravo Workshop, praised Mr. Mekinulov’s engaging approach. “His high energy, musical intelligence, and humor make every coaching session and masterclass with him fun and exciting to be part of,” Brown said. Audience member and sophomore cellist Justin Lee, also a member of the school’s symphony orchestra, echoed the sentiment. “Roman helped make the music they played sound more energetic and fun to listen to,” he shared after the event.
This masterclass follows another high-profile visit in February from David Kim, concertmaster of the Philadelphia Orchestra. With opportunities to work closely with world-class musicians, Williamsville North’s music students are gaining valuable experiences and inspiration to carry forward in their musical journeys. A special thank you goes to Ms. Sandra Paddock for her instrumental role in inviting Mr. Mekinulov.
Mr. Roman Mekinulov with North High Students
A big thank you to the Music Boosters for sponsoring this event!
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