name this violin prodigy?

May 7, 2011 6:22 AM

I remember reading about a young violin prodigy of the 1970s who had eccentric parents who dressed him up in a caveman-style shawl made of bear fur. Does anyone know the name and travails of this now probably aged 40+ violinist?
posted by parmanparman to Grab Bag (3 answers total)

Best answer: Perhaps you're thinking of Eugene Fodor (1950-2011)? He wore a wig in the 70's while studying under Jascha Heifetz, who detested long hair; as Fodor refused to cut his, he was forced to use the piece to conceal his mane during public performances.

Fodor suffered under a domineering father, which led to rebelliousness, substance abuse, and trouble with the law; he was known to play shirtless, or in jeans and cowboy boots instead of formal attire. This led to his appearances on

His professional career largely came to a close due to a drug-related break-in at Martha's Vineyard. After checking into rehab, he continued work until his death.
posted by Smart Dalek at 9:23 AM on May 7, 2011

Sorry, poor edit - Fodor often made the evening TV circuit due to his talent and demeanor.
posted by Smart Dalek at 9:25 AM on May 7, 2011

Response by poster: I appreciate the answer, but I don't think it is Eugene Fodor that I am looking for. I recall that this vionlist's parents had a real hand in his image and they had their own impressive eccentricities that seemed to punctuate their son's childhood.
posted by parmanparman at 11:22 AM on May 7, 2011