Millennium Magazine_8th Ed

36 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ARTS, MEDIA AND ENTERTAINMENT A ttracted to music from a formative age, David Obelkevich began studying violin in the third grade, eventually playing in orchestras by the sixth grade. Maintaining his orchestral status through his collegiate years, he graduated from Columbia University with a BA in music in 1965 and an MA in music education in 1967. Formerly employed as a music teacher in Metuchen, New Jersey, he subsequently served as an orchestral music teacher at Benjamin Franklin High School and George Westinghouse High School through the New York City Department of Education from 1970 until his retirement in 1996. Maintaining affiliation with the Riverside Orchestra, Mr. Obelkevich has always exhibited a passion for being a better violinist and violist, and often aided the Riverside Orchestra as a member of the violin section and concertmaster. Likewise, he is a member of the 92Y and the Amateur Chamber Music Group, and a patron of several musical groups. Dedicated to his own health and wellness, he has further contributed his time to long distance running and bicycling. Notably, he took part in nearly 50 New York City marathons since 1970, finishing the marathon for 43 consecutive years and holding an additional distinction for totaling 44 finishes. Additionally, he was the first American individual to obtain a green number at the Comrades Marathon, and once bicycled fromNew York to California in only 56 days. He has run in over 110 marathons in total throughout the United States, Australia and Japan. Although his career has been abound with highlights, Mr. Obelkevich cites a career achievement to be when he was one out of four violinists at the All-County Orchestra in Jackson City, New York, during his senior year of high school. He attributes his success to his undying love for music, as well as his drive to help others succeed. Looking toward the future, Mr. Obelkevich intends to continue enjoying his well-deserved retirement in his home in New York City, as well as continue running for as long as he is able. He is the proud father of two children and grandfather of three step-grandchildren. DAVID OBELKEVICH ORCHESTRAL MUSIC TEACHER New York City Department of Education New York, NY