A multi-talented instrumentalist and composer, Rafael began his music journey at a very young age studying both the violin and piano. By 10, he was selected to attend the Special Tchaikovsky Music School at Moscow Conservatory to further his studies. From there his love of music flourished and he continued to study, culminating in a Masters of Music Degree from Rachmaninoff Conservatory.
Rafael loves sharing his passion for music and inspiring young musicians on their musical journeys. His lessons are high energy with his excitement for music permeating through all he teaches. Offering lessons that are grounded in the classical tradition, Rafael focuses on helping the musician establish technical mastery and guiding the student to find their own unique sound. Comfortable with many musical traditions, Rafael enjoys teaching in styles including classical, pop, jazz, country, folk, klezmer, and show tunes.
Known for his ability to compose and improvise pieces, you’ll often find Rafael at the piano or violin making music out of thin air. He has used these talents locally to create works for the George Mason University Dance Department, accompany the Washington School of Ballet, and teach master classes at John Hopkins University Peabody Conservatory of Music. He’s an expert pedagogue for both violin and piano, he has taught students from beginner to virtuoso.
Internationally he was the Music Director of Violino, the Dnepropetrovsk Symphony Youth Violin Ensemble. Violino was selected to perform all over Europe and the US in concert halls and for dignitaries. As an instrumentalist, Rafael Javadov has performed all over the world, including more locally at the Kennedy Center, Strathmore Hall, Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, the US Senate, the Cherry Blossom Festival, and at presidential inaugural events. Additionally, he has performed at Rockefeller Center in NYC and as part of Josh Groban’s US Tour.
When not teaching you can find Rafael playing with his sweet dog Lexy.