Meet Eddy Malave | Freelance violist and educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Eddy Malave and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Eddy, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
When I was young, I realized I excel really well in music. I was getting all this wonderful attention and encouragement because it’s something that I felt I could do naturally. Interestingly enough, I was always challenged with learning to organize my thoughts meaning time management and took analyze Things, but it was so interesting how it was so easy to put things together. At the time I didn’t realize that the advances of technology would go at such a rapid speed ultimately changing and still is the face of the music industry at its core. However, I’m still in the game and I absolutely love it because I still get to meet people from around the world. I actually get a chance to travel quite a bit and make music and contribute and make a difference not just in a group setting but even individually and it’s a reinforcement as to why it’s so worth it to me.

Alright, so let’s move on to what keeps you busy professionally.

On paper, my accomplishments might seem to fit neatly into a box, but my journey has been anything but confined. Since high school, I’ve been building my experience – not just through traditional résumé – building activities like Youth Orchestra, but through networking, skill development, and Rio – world learning. College expanded my connections and honed my abilities, and entering the workforce allowed me to meet incredible mentors who helped guide me along the way.

Interestingly, even challenges – whether difficult colleagues, unsupportive, teachers, or even bullying have played a role in shaping who I am those tough moments reminded me that life is about choices and how we respond to obstacles determines our growth. Of course, that’s easier said than done, but having the guidance of genuinely good people has helped me stay on my path.

That said, I am more than just my resume. It’s about life experience – playing well, maintaining my mental balance as naturally as possible, being prepared when I show up, and fostering positive relationships. I always want to leave a job, meeting, or rehearsal with people feeling that I was easy to work with, prepared, and bringing my best to the table – not in an artificial way, but in a way that reflects authenticity and professionalism.

This philosophy extends to my teaching as well. I teach the alexander technique a form of somatic work, to students at all levels – beginner, intermediate, and advanced. My goal is always to connect with individuals in a way that helps them achieve their best results.

Beyond music, I’m deeply inspired by personal growth. I admire figures like Don Green, who works with performance and athletes, and Tony Robbins, who focuses on mindset and self improvement. These perspectives help me develop both professionally and personally.

Currently, I perform in various Broadway shows and ensembles at Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall all wild based in New York. I also substitute as a be with regional symphonies like the Vermont symphony, Binghamton, Philharmonic, and the Harrisburg Symphony among others. Summers take me to Europe, where I continue performing and teaching Mainly for the American Institute of musical studies in Graz, Austria.

For me, it’s all about learning to pace myself and enjoy the journey along the way.

If your best friend was visiting, where would you take them for the best time ever?

That’s such an interesting question because I’ve been incredibly lucky to travel all over the world, and I have several favorite cities—New York, Istanbul, Paris, Rome, Lisbon, Tokyo, and Buenos Aires. The funny part is, I know these places well enough to make great recommendations.

That said, I never assume a “one-size-fits-all” itinerary. Before planning anything, I always ask questions:

•What kind of food do you like? Are you vegetarian or a meat eater?

•Do you enjoy walking, or do you prefer public transportation—or even a private car service?

•Do you like shopping, or are you more of a window shopper?

•Are you into history, arts, nightlife, or something else entirely?

Once I get a sense of their preferences, I can curate an amazing experience. In a way, it’s like being an unofficial ambassador for these cities—even though I’m only an American citizen! LOL.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

Honestly, there are too many to list because, in the grand scheme of things, it’s never just one person or one organization. That said, my private teachers were tremendous guiding forces in my life. On a community level, participating in Youth Orchestra programs played a huge role in my development.

Attending The Juilliard School for both of my degrees was a transformative experience—not just in honing my craft but also in learning the power of networking. On a professional level, the Broadway community has been incredibly welcoming and instrumental in shaping my career.

I’ve also had the privilege of performing with incredible ensembles such as the New York City Ballet Orchestra and the Orchestra of St. Luke’s. From my early education and community involvement to my conservatory training and, ultimately, my professional career—whether on Broadway, at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, or on stages around the world—I’m deeply grateful for every individual and institution that has played a role in my journey.

Connect with me

Website: eddymalave.com

Instagram: @eddyviola

LinkedIn: Eddy Malave

Twitter: @eddyviola

Facebook: Eddy Malave

YouTube: Eddy Malave Viola