Born in Cairo in 1981. Islam Elhefnawy joined Cairo Conservatory at the age of 6 and studied violin with Professor Irakly Beridze and Professor Hassan Sharara.
– In 2001: Graduated from Cairo Conservatory (Excellent with honor)
– In 2005: Diploma
– In 2010: Masters Degree (Excellent with honor) in Musical Arts (violin)
– In 2017: PHD Degree (Excellent with honor) in Musical Arts (violin) from Cairo Conservatory.
Work Experience
– For 11 years (From 1996 – 2007):
Member of Cairo Opera Orchestra and was the second concertmaster in the last 3 years (2005-2007)
– In 2004:
The concertmaster of Egyptian Philharmonic Society Orchestra in Cairo
– From (2008 – till present):
A tutti member of Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.
Competitions
Took part in several local and international competitions:
– In 1997: Wieniawsky and Lipinski International violin Competition in Poland.
– In 1999: Jacques Thibaud International violin Competition in France.
Activities
– Had a master class in Germany with Professor Lucas David in 1996 and Professor Wolfgang Marschner in 1997.
– Participated in several concerts and tours:
In 1995: Mediterranean Sea Orchestra.
In 1997 and 1999: Schleswig Holstein Music Festival Orchestra.
In 1999 and 2000: West Eastern Divan Orchestra with Maestro Daniel Barenboim.
In 2004, 2005 and 2006: UBS Verbier Festival Orchestra.
In 2009, 2011, 2014 and 2016: Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.
Chamber Music
– From (2008 till present):
Member of “Mosaic” Ensemble.
Member of “CineMoon” Ensemble.
Member of “Doha Baroque” Ensemble.
Solo Performances
– Appeared as a soloist with several orchestras, including: Alexandria Chamber Orchestra, Cairo Opera Orchestra, Cairo Symphony Orchestra and Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.