Atar Arad

**Atar Arad** is an Israeli-American viola virtuoso and composer who’s spent decades championing his instrument’s rich, underappreciated voice. Born in Tel Aviv, he honed his craft at the Tel Aviv Academy of Music before heading to the U.S. to study with legendary violinist Josef Gingold at Indiana University. Arad’s career blossomed as both a performer and educator—he’s known for his lyrical playing and innovative teaching at institutions like Indiana’s Jacobs School of Music.

His recent releases, like *Viola Sola* and *Sonata for Viola Solo & String Quartet*, showcase his dual love for intimate, exploratory solo work and collaborative chamber music. Arad’s compositions often blur lines between tradition and modernity, expanding the viola’s repertoire with pieces that challenge and celebrate its warm, expressive tone. Whether he’s performing or composing, his passion for elevating the viola’s role in classical music shines through.

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