Born in Tel-Aviv in 1941, Shmuel Ashkenasi began his musical training at the Musical Academy of Tel-Aviv studying with legendary teacher Ilona Feher. He is a noted teacher, currently holding the post of Professor of Violin at the Curtis Institute of Music.

International Center For Music at Park University: Nestled in the river bluffs overlooking Kansas City, a musical enclave is quietly producing some of the best classical musicians in the world. Based on the Classic European Apprenticeship Model, the Park International Center for Music is transforming protégés in piano, violin, viola and Cello.