“I never let setbacks put me down for long,” said Aaron Rosand. “I bounce back, and I fight back, and my inner confidence takes over. I know what I have to offer, and I am going to do it to the end of my days.”

The inspirational violinist died on Tuesday.

Rosand studied at the Curtis Institute with Efrem Zimbalist and later taught there, from 1981 until his retirement only months ago. Rosand also taught at the Mannes School of Music.

He recorded prolifically and had a fine career, but it could have been even better. Late in life, he went on record to confirm rumors that he had been undercut repeatedly by a jealous and powerful rival.

At one point, Rosand had 75 concertos in his active repertoire. He claimed never to have forgotten a note. He singled out the Walton and Korngold concertos as two of his favorites. He was particularly proud of his recordings of Beethoven’s complete works for violin and his early recording of Sarasate showpieces.

A great teacher and a great musician, he disliked exercise, but loved scotch, ice cream, and classic movies. Rosand was 92 years-old.

Rosand plays Sarasate:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyx4yFtyHU8

Rosand the teacher:

The secret of his success. Still sounding great at 80.