Malkhaz Dediashvili (Mr. D)

Malkhaz Dediashvili was born on August 1st, 1952 in the family home, on Dzenaldze street in Tbilisi, Georgia (country) to parents, Tamara Babaladze and David Dediashvili and sister, Lali.

From a very young age, Malkhaz showed an amazing disposition to music. Tamara was very fond of Cello and perhaps saw compatibility between Malkhaz’ character and Cello the instrument and encouraged Malkhaz’ education as a Cellist. While Malkhaz received instruction in Piano and music theory (as a core competency), his exceptional abilities to learn and play the cello, earned him a seat at a school for the musically gifted. Not only was Malkhaz an exceptional musician from an early age, he also held (equivalent of) straight A’s in all other subjects throughout his school career. He was particularly good at drafting and graphing (special course that was required during his time) and was loved by his teacher and would sometimes have fond memories of both the teacher and the experience going through his class.

After graduating from the school for the musically gifted, Malkhaz went on to the university where he earned a master’s degree in fine arts and graduated with honors, or a “red diploma” as it was known during the time (equivalent of “Deans List” for graduates).

Malkhaz music teacher’s teacher was Mstislav Rostropovich, who at the time, was the best Cello player, performer and teacher in the world (equivalent of modern day Yo Yo Ma).

Upon beginning his professional career, Malkhaz worked for the Georgian Philharmonic and the Georgian Chamber orchestras, as well as a local music school.

At around the age of 25, Malkhaz was introduced (against his wishes) to Sofi Rininberg, who would eventually become Sofi Dediashvili, wife and the love of Malkhaz’ life.

Malkhaz and Sofi had two boys, Michael and Levan who grew up together as brothers with Malkhaz’ sister’s son (also named) David.

Malkhaz worked very hard throughout his entire life to provide for his family. This included working 3 jobs (at one point) eventually leading to a long and dedicated career with the Georgian Chamber orchestra under Liana Isakadze where he toured most of the world and performed with very famous musicians and artists such as Mischa Maisky, Evgeny Kissin, Kurt Masur as well as many others.

During a contract job in Ingostadt, Germany, where the Georgian Chamber Orchestra was sponsored by automaker AUDI to live and work for an extended period of time, the Soviet Union fell apart, Georgia (the republic then, now a country) separated from the 15 soviet republics and the situation at home became unstable and unsafe for return. Malkhaz and family decided to emigrate to the United States of America where some relatives were able to get established. In the beginning of 1991, Malkhaz and family had made their way to California where yet another new life had to begin.

Malkhaz started out as many immigrants, working at a pizza house washing dishes and delivering pizza. While Sofi took jobs like babysitting and teaching the piano. Eventually Malkhaz and Sofi were able to start finding jobs performing at birthday parties, restaurants, weddings etc. At one point, Malkhaz took a job at the Sacramento Symphony, however, the commute (from San Jose) made it very difficult for Malkhaz to keep the performing job for an extended period of time. Nevertheless, he continued to perform with great local musicians at various events, such as John Nakamatsu . Eventually, both Malkhaz and Sofi focused on private teaching of music and have produced several successful students earning seats at the California Youth Symphony as well as commendations from the president of the United States.

Malkhaz was and will always continue to be in our hearts, a great musician, artist, craftsman and a source of wisdom for guiding principles throughout life. He was infinitely patient and was able to reach even the most difficult and stubborn students. He did so by NEVER raising his voice nor inflicting any physical punishment (it was common with teachers/educators of his generation to hit children with a ruler for example). Malkhaz believed in reaching the person on some other level. Malkhaz used to say that “there is a key to every person, you just have to find it.” He was known for making the music lesson fun, interesting and educational at the same time. If there was a cello lesson he was teaching, he would play along with a guitar or the piano. If it was a high-level performance that someone was preparing for, he would create videos to simulate the stress of an audience and go over anything that may need to be corrected. Malkhaz was known for selecting the best pieces for students and then preparing excellent audition recordings to be used as audition submissions for various schools or competitions.

Malkhaz was a truly incredible person who will be missed for eternity.He passed away in his sleep on May 12th, 2018. We found a few graphics on his phone that illustrate in pictures much more than what can be said here in words:

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