Local violinist wins at international competition

A celebrated violinist who serves as a faculty member at the Music Conservatory of Coeur d'Alene has even more reason to celebrate.

Richard Altenbach, an A-list Hollywood recording musician, won second prize in the International Golden Key Piano Composition Competition for "The Jester’s Waltz." He will travel to Vienna in July to receive his diploma and winner’s medal and to hear his piece performed by Anna Leyerer, a renowned virtuoso concert pianist, at the World Composers’ Recital.

"Being a classically-trained violinist as well as a composer of Viennese heritage, I was especially ecstatic to hear that my piece won an award in a competition held in Vienna, Austria, — arguably the world capital of Western classical music," Altenbach told The Press. "Of course, having placed in the second degree in the National Professional Category points out there is always room to aim higher in the pursuit of excellence."

The Golden Key Competition has a major educational component with winner categories spanning all age groups. The judges, experienced musicians in their own right, provide detailed critiques to all participants.

"I definitely take their comments on my waltz to heart," Altenbach said.

He said he feels honored to be invited to participate in the World Composers’ Recital.

"To hear a piece of music you've poured your heart into brought to life by talented, creative performers always brings great joy," Altenbach said. "It is a gratifying moment for any composer. Specifically regarding 'The Jester’s Waltz," that Vienna is the home of the venerated waltz form gives me an extra thrill to have it featured in concert."

It's not a reverential bow to the elegant dance of old, he said, but rather a wild, fiendishly fast and outrageous parody on the art.

“'The Jester’s Waltz' has much more in common with Cirque de Soleil or the court jester in Edgar Allan Poe’s 'HopFrog' than with 'The Blue Danube,'" Altenbach said.

To have the composition presented at the famous Ehrbar Hall where such greats as Johannes Brahms and Gustav Mahler performed is a bonus, he said, "and the international exposure can only help to disseminate the work throughout musical circles."

Altenbach has been involved in over 1,000 film scores, including the "Jurassic Park" franchise, and has worked with John Williams, Hans Zimmer and Danny Elfman. He has participated in hundreds of albums for artists such as Barbra Streisand, Frank Sinatra, Yo-Yo Ma, Aerosmith, Mannheim Steamroller and Childish Gambino. 

An active chamber musician, Altenbach's other symphonic experience includes serving as first violinist with Houston Symphony, L.A. Chamber Orchestra, Joffrey Ballet, L.A. Opera and Hollywood Bowl Orchestras. He now often plays as first violin for the Spokane Symphony. He also composes for film, video games and the concert stage.

This summer, Altenbach will perform on stage as the Fiddler in Coeur d'Alene Summer Theater’s "Fiddler on the Roof." The show is headed by Scott Michaelsen, music director, and director/choreographer Gary John LaRosa.

"It is a pleasure working with these fun and kind people on such an exciting project," Altenbach said.

Altenbach goes way back with the musical, having premiered his role as “Fiddler” in high school.

“I’m looking forward to spending time on hopefully not-so-rickety rooftops, and dancing around while playing on stage," he said.

Executive Artistic Director Chuck Ethridge said Altenbach brought his exceptional violin skills to CST's orchestra pit last season, enriching the professionalism of its productions. 

"It's inspiring to see a violinist of his caliber not only performing the iconic title role in 'Fiddler on the Roof,' but also creating music that resonates on a global stage," he said. "Congratulations, Richard! We're all incredibly proud to have you on the team at the Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre!"

Later in July, Altenbach will serve as concertmaster of the pit orchestra for CST’s production of “Secret Garden.” His wife, Dawn Simmons, will perform the role of Rose.

“The music of 'Secret Garden' is hauntingly beautiful, and I look forward to catching a glimpse of my wife from the depths of the pit!" he said.

    Richard Altenbach is seen with his violin during a performance four years ago.  

    Altenbach