Featured Musician: David Obelvich

As a young boy, Mr. Obelkevich was inspired by his older brother and father, whom both played the violin around the house. Following in their footsteps, he began attending violin lessons in third grade and has never looked back. Seventy years later, Mr. Obelkevich still maintains his love of music, channeling his expertise into his work as an orchestral music teacher for the New York City Department of Education.

To remain aware of changes in the field of music, Mr. Obelkevich is affiliated with the Amateur Music Chamber Players. He was an expert in his field and earned a Bachelor of Arts from Columbia College in 1965. Subsequently, Mr. Obelkevich obtained a Master of Arts in music education from Teachers College at Columbia University in 1967.

Although his career has been filled with highlights, Mr. Obelkevich is incredibly proud of serving as a violinist in the all-county orchestra in Johnson City, New York. In July 2002, he became the first western musician to play in an orchestra in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Additionally, he has finished a record-number 44 out of 49 New York City Marathons since 1970. Looking toward the future, Mr. Obelkevich aims to continue running and parlaying his love of music to others.