Violinist of Rockychester

A children's biography of world-renowned violinist Louis Persinger who was born in Rochester, Illinois. Story focuses how he was young boy who followed his dreams.

by Ray Bruzan

When does a children’s book become more than just a bedtime story?

Award-winning author and educator Ray Bruzan’s 28-page hardback book, The Violinist of Rockychester, links the fascinating life of violinist Louis Persinger with an inspiration to "dare to dream, as you never know where those dreams may take you."

Readers follow the dreams of Persinger from his 1887 birth in the village of Rochester, Illinois, to his international success as a violin virtuoso. He then taught students who themselves became great violinists, including Yehudi Menuhin, Ruggiero Ricci, and Isaac Stern.

The Violinist of Rockychester is dedicated to the violinist’s grandson Brandon Louis Persinger. His photo, as well as those of Louis as an infant, are featured on the dedication page. Also included is a photograph of the author in Vienna, Austria, on the Ehrbar Saal Concert Hall stage, where Persinger performed on January 21, 1911.

The Violinist of Rockeychester is intended to be much more than just a bedtime story. It promotes and encourages its readers to follow their dreams, just like Louis Persinger, the little boy from the small village of Rochester, did to become an international star.

Illustrations by Jim Edwards.

Pages: 28 Pages