About Me

Shira Zemach with orchestra

Biography

Shira Zemach is an Israeli violinist based in Zurich, where she is currently pursuing a Master of Music in Violin Performance at the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK) under the guidance of Ilya Gringolts. She previously earned both a Master of Music in Chamber Music and a Bachelor of Music from the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance, where she studied with Chaim Taub and Roi Shiloah. She also participated in the Shlomo Mintz Academy.

As a performer, Shira is passionate about both solo and chamber music. She performs regularly with her piano trio and in a variety of chamber music collaborations, and has appeared as a soloist with orchestras in Israel. Her orchestral experience includes freelance engagements with leading ensembles such as the Israel Camerata and the Israel Symphony Orchestra Rishon LeZion, as well as serving as Concertmaster and Principal Second Violin of the Mendy Rodan Symphony Orchestra.

An active chamber musician, Shira has participated in the Younes and Soraya Nazarian Program for Excellence in Chamber Music and in Musethica Organization projects, experiences that have strengthened her belief in music as a powerful means of connection, dialogue, and shared human experience.

Her artistic work has been supported by scholarships from the America-Israel Cultural Foundation, the Ronen Foundation, and the Bruno Schuler Stiftung. She was awarded Third Prize in the David Gritz Strings Competition (2024) and Second Prize in the Dina Turgeman Chamber Music Competition (2023).

Teaching

Teaching is a natural extension of my life as a performer. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the transformative power of music, and that learning an instrument should be both inspiring and deeply personal.

In my lessons, I strive to create a supportive and engaging environment where students feel encouraged to explore, ask questions, and develop their own musical voice. While technical foundations are essential, I see technique as a tool for expression rather than an end in itself.

I work with students of different ages, backgrounds, and levels of experience, tailoring each lesson to their individual goals and learning style. My ultimate aim is to help every student grow with confidence, curiosity, and a genuine connection to music.

Shira Zemach teaching students