Leslie Parnas: A St. Louis Cellist's Journey From CMS to Global Stage

Research by Linda Chickos; draft by China Thomas; edited by ChatGPT

Leslie Parnas, born Nov. 11, 1931, grew up in a musically rich household in St. Louis, Missouri where the sound of instruments was ever-present. Both of his parents and his siblings, Richard, Spencer and Shirley, were musicians, fostering an environment that encouraged his early musical development. Beginning on the piano at age 5, Parnas soon shifted his focus to the cello at age 7, which became his instrument of choice and his lifelong passion.

St. Louis Beginnings and the Community Music School

Parnas’s musical education formally began at the Community Music School, then in its infancy and growing in reputation as a center for young musical talent. His enrollment in the school placed him on a path that would lead to remarkable accomplishments. A prodigy in the making, he demonstrated an impressive command of the cello at an early age, and by 14, Parnas had made his debut with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO). This debut was a turning point for Parnas and a significant moment for the Community Music School, affirming its role as a foundational training ground for promising young musicians.

Advanced Studies and a Flourishing Career

Following his early successes in St. Louis, Parnas’s talent carried him to the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, where he studied under the renowned cellist Gregor Piatigorsky. Graduating in 1951, Parnas then joined the U.S. Navy Band, honing his performance skills before returning to St. Louis to play as the SLSO's principal cellist. This homecoming solidified his connection to his roots in St. Louis while also marking his transition to a fully professional musician.

Parnas’s performance abilities quickly brought him international acclaim. In 1962, he competed in the prestigious International Tchaikovsky Competition, achieving second place — an historic accomplishment that elevated his international profile. Not only was he celebrated as a virtuoso in the United States, but he was also a notable figure in Russia, regularly performing there even amidst political tensions. His advocacy for cross-cultural music exchanges showed his dedication to using music as a bridge between nations.

Chamber Music and the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center

Parnas’s career evolved further when he joined the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center in 1969 as a founding member. His role in the society marked a new phase of his career – one focused on collaboration and artistry within the chamber music world. His involvement in the society elevated its standing, attracting distinguished artists and solidifying its importance within the chamber music community. This phase of his life reflected his dedication not only to performance, but to the collective art of ensemble playing.

Legacy as a Teacher and Mentor

After a career filled with international acclaim, Parnas channeled his knowledge and experience into teaching, becoming a mentor to aspiring cellists. From 1963 to 2013, he served as an adjunct professor at Boston University, sharing the insights gleaned from his years of performance on some of the world’s grandest stages. Through his teaching, Parnas imparted the legacy of his St. Louis roots, his Curtis Institute training and his experiences as an international musician to the next generation.

Impact and Lasting Legacy

Parnas died in 2022 at the age of 90, leaving behind an impressive legacy that traces back to his earliest days at the Community Music School in St. Louis. His journey — from a young prodigy nurtured by the local St. Louis music community to an internationally renowned musician and educator — stands as a testament to the value of accessible music education. Parnas’ life story not only illustrates his remarkable talent and dedication, but also highlights the important role that institutions like the Community Music School play in shaping artists who influence the world stage.

Through his accomplishments, Parnas remains a celebrated figure in St. Louis and a shining example of the profound and far-reaching impact of community-based music education. His life’s work continues to inspire musicians and music educators, underscoring the enduring legacy of both Parnas and the Community Music School that helped launch his career.