Isaac Stern

Born in Kremenets, Ukraine, Isaac Stern moved to San Francisco with his family when he was just 14 months old, which explains why he didn't sound like he was playing a balalaika. His parents were Jewish, and he maintained a strong connection to his heritage throughout his life, performing often in Israel and advocating fiercely for the state. If you ever doubted his "Jewishness," watching him argue with Soviet officials about human rights might convince you otherwise. He was essentially a one-man klezmer band with a classical education.

Stern’s career was a masterclass in musical prowess and international diplomacy. He premiered works by Leonard Bernstein and William Schuman, and his virtuosity inspired a generation of violinists. He was also instrumental in saving Carnegie Hall from demolition in the 1960s, proving that even a violinist can be a hero when real estate developers are involved.

His K-score is practically off the charts, not just for his incredible musical talent, but for his tireless advocacy for arts education and human rights. He didn't just play the violin; he used it as a tool for cultural exchange and political persuasion, earning him numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Nachas, indeed.