Felix Ayo Losada, born on 1 July 1933, was a Spanish-born Italian violinist whose career spanned over five decades. Known for his multifaceted contributions to classical music, he was a founder of the Italian ensemble I Musici, an internationally acclaimed soloist, a chamber music performer, a teacher, and a prolific recording artist.
Early Life and Musical Training
Early Years and Education
Born in Sestao, Spain, Felix Ayo began his musical journey at the Municipal Conservatory of Sestao, later continuing his studies at the Municipal Conservatory of Bilbao. Demonstrating prodigious talent, he completed his musical education with honors at the mere age of 14.
Further Studies and Formation of I Musici
His quest for musical excellence led him to further studies in Paris, Siena, and Rome. Ayo was a key founder of the renowned ensemble I Musici, serving as their first violin soloist for sixteen years.
Career Milestones
Performances and Venues
Ayo graced some of the most prestigious stages around the world, including Carnegie Hall, Berliner Philharmonie, Teatro Colón, Musikverein, Teatro Real, La Scala, Sydney Opera House, Concertgebouw, and the Accademia di Santa Cecilia. He also collaborated as a soloist with eminent symphony orchestras such as those of Madrid, Copenhagen, Buenos Aires, Tokyo, and chamber orchestras like the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Berlin Kammerorchester, Tokyo String Ensemble, and the Virtuosi di Roma.
Teaching Career
Apart from his performing career, Ayo was deeply invested in education. He taught at the Conservatorio di Musica Santa Cecilia, Roma, and Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia. He also conducted masterclasses across the globe—in countries like Canada, Australia, the USA, Denmark, Japan, Italy, Spain, and Germany. His expertise made him a frequent jury member for international music competitions.
Quartetto Beethoven di Roma
In 1970, Ayo formed the Quartetto Beethoven di Roma, which quickly gained a reputation as one of the world's finest chamber ensembles. The quartet comprised Felix Ayo on violin, Alfonso Ghedin on viola, Mihai Dancila on cello, and Carlo Bruno on piano. They toured extensively and received the Premio Discografico della Critica Italiana for their recordings.
Instrument and Discography
Ayo's Violin
Ayo played a G.B. Guadagnini violin made in 1744, which contributed to his distinct sound.
Recordings
He had an extensive discography that included works from composers like Bach, Vivaldi, Corelli, Telemann, Albinoni, Tartini, Viotti, Turina, and Granados. He recorded for several prestigious labels including Decca, EMI Classics, Dynamic, and Philips.
Awards and Recognitions
Ayo's recordings received numerous awards, including the Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik, Edison Prize, Mar del Plata prize, Grand Prix du Disque (for his historic version of Vivaldi's The Four Seasons), and the prize awarded by Italian Record Critics for the Beethoven piano quartets.
Final Chapter
Felix Ayo Losada passed away on 24 September 2023 at the age of 90, leaving behind an indelible legacy in the world of classical music.
Felix Ayo Losada was more than just a violinist; he was a complete musician who left his mark as a performer, teacher, and recording artist. His life was a testament to the heights that can be achieved with dedication, skill, and a deep love for music. His influence will be felt for generations to come, both through his recordings and the artists he mentored.
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