Most 17-year-old boys are out surfing and skateboarding. La Jolla’s own Eugene Ugorski does all the things a normal boy does, but he has one talent that is rare and special. He is a violin virtuoso and is known around the world for his stunning abilities in the concert hall. I met with the 6-foot-3-inch Ugorski in his La Jolla home recently to talk about the personal side of a boy genius.
Eugene Ugorski: I was born in St. Petersburg, Russia. I’m Russian, but we moved to America when I was about 6.
James Colt Harrison: How did playing the violin come about?
EU: I grew up with a musical background. Both of my parents are affiliated with music. My mom is a pianist and a teacher. My dad is associated with orchestras. I grew up and had perfect pitch as a kid. I worked on the piano a little, and then I picked up the violin upon my teacher’s recommendation. She thought I had a gift, and so she pushed me toward playing the violin, and that’s how it happened!
JCH: Do you feel that people are born with a talent rather than acquiring it later in life?
EU: Oh, yes! Yes, I think both things have to be connected. You can’t be without any ability or talent. Also, a big part of it is hard work. It’s complete dedication and practicing six hours a day. Having a great teacher is important.
JCH: I talked to concert pianist Gustavo Romero recently, and he said he can do a complete concert without looking at a sheet of music.
EU: Oh, I do that. It’s not unusual. I don’t know how to explain it. It’s like the script for an actor, and it’s not more complicated than that. Perfect pitch, memory helps. I don’t need to hear anything more than once to memorize everything. It’s natural and normal (laughs)!
JCH: Do the kids at school give you a bad time?
EU: No, no. It’s the opposite of that. People my age are too mature for petty stuff. They respect you for traveling all over the world and working.
JCH: Do you actually enjoy all the travel?
EU: Yes, I do! I’ve been doing it so long. I love seeing new places and playing in new cities. I love seeing my name on a new billboard! I’m an entertainer and people come to see me at concerts. It’s a privilege for me to play in new cities.
JCH: Is there any one city that is a favorite?
EU: I would say that some are more memorable than others. I just returned to Russia to play a concert in Moscow. I loved Sao Paulo, Brazil. Rio was awesome. Vancouver was a beautiful place. I can usually get one day to myself to sightsee. London was amazing.
JCH: Are you more famous in one country than another?
EU: Well, I’m known wherever I play. I go on TV and talk shows to promote my concerts. I get recognized sometimes.
JCH: Don’t you feel kind of blessed with your talent?
EU: Yeah, I do. I get to do something for a living that I like to do. Not a lot of people can do that.
JCH: Are you a typical teenager?
EU: Are you kidding me? Yes, I am. I’m not an oddball! The only difference is that I devote a good portion of my life to music.
JCH: Do you ever practice in your room and drive the neighbors crazy?
EU: Yeah. I practice either downstairs or in the guesthouse. They’re used to it and don’t throw eggs at me.
JCH: You’re a very funny guy. I think the best thing to develop is a sense of humor.
EU: I completely agree! You can’t get too far without that. It will bring you down if you don’t have humor. Sometimes it’s essential. Just laugh it off!
JCH: What would you like our readers to know about you?
EU: Well, you’ve asked me some interesting questions already! I’d say I’m pretty normal. I hang out with friends, I go to the beach, I go to parties. I do spend six or seven hours a day practicing the violin. That’s a little weird, I guess. I don’t think in any way that I’m different.
JCH: Do you like any music other than classical?
EU: Yes, I do. I love jazz. Most classical musicians love jazz. I’m not closed-minded, and I’ll listen to anything. I love all sorts of music.
JCH: What is your goal in life?
EU: I want to be a violinist. Too much work has been put into it. I’m limited a little now because I’m still in school. I’m gong to go to a conservatory, but don’t know which one yet. I could have gone to Juilliard when I was 9 years old. But it’s all up in the air now.
JCH: What do you do to take care of your hands?
EU: Well, they’re insured for about $30 million. Just kidding!
Eugene Ugorski’s next performances will be at the San Diego Symphony Summer Pops Tchaikovsky Spectacular, Aug. 31, Sept. 1 and 2, 7:30 p.m. Call (619) 235-0804 for tickets.