Ida Haendel was born in 1928 to a Polish Jewish family in Chełm. She first picked up the violin at the age of three and was regarded as a child prodigy. She was taught by the renowned Carl Flesch and George Enescu.

At home. Ida has lived in Miami Beach for nearly 30 years.

Ida’s dog, Decca, is named after the classical record label. She started recording for the label in September 1940.

Taking an international call in her study. Ida never knows where the next invitation might come from.

Ida Haendel's virtuoso technique and recognisable tone has inspired generations of violinists, including Anne-Sophie Mutter and Janine Jansen. She is regarded as one of the most prolific and influential musicians of our time – the last survivor of the golden era, which included masters such as Jascha Heifetz and Yehudi Menuhin.