Druian was born in
Vologda, Russia but immigrated with his parents to
Havana, Cuba as an infant. He began his formal music training there as a violinist, studying with
Amadeo Roldán, the conductor of the Havana Philharmonic. At age 9, he went to Philadelphia to audition for
Leopold Stokowski, who recommended him for a scholarship at the
Curtis Institute of Music where he studied with
Lea Luboshutz and
Efrem Zimbalist, graduating in 1942. He then served in the
United States Army from 1943 to 1946, playing the
mellophone in the
Army Band.
Druian was married to Phyllis Rugg Druian. They had two sons, Peter of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Greg of Portland, Oregon.
Discography
Robert Schumann Violin Sonata 1 and
Johannes Brahms Violin Sonata 2; Druian (violin); John Simms, (piano); Mercury - MG50091.
Charles Ives Violin Sonatas 1 and 2; Druian (violin); John Simms, (piano); Mercury - MG50096, MG50097, released in 1957.
Fritz Kreisler Favorites; Druian (violin); John Sims, (piano); Mercury - MG50119A, MG50119B.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Sinfonia Concertante, K. 364; Druian (violin); Abraham Skernick (viola); Cleveland Orchestra, George Szell (conductor); Epic/Columbia/CBS/Sony, recorded Nov. 28, 1963; nominated for a
Grammy Award in 1965.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Violin Sonatas, K. 301 & 296; Druian (violin), George Szell (piano) (1967)
External links
[1] A chronological listing of principal musicians of the Cleveland Orchestra with biographical remarks.