Prímás
Pannon Portrait
Born in Keszthely, Farkis Béla is a violinist carrying forward the musical heritage of a family tradition spanning several generations. He studied at the Bartók Conservatory in Budapest and later earned his degree in violin performance at the University of Pécs. Alongside an international performing career, both classical music and Hungarian Gypsy music remain defining elements of his artistry.
Career
Farkis Béla was born on 5 November 1986 in Keszthely into a family with a musical tradition spanning several generations. His father is a clarinettist and his grandfather was a primás, making music a natural part of his life from early childhood. He developed a particular interest in the violin at a young age and began his formal musical studies when he was seven.
At the age of fourteen, he was admitted to the Bartók Conservatory in Budapest. He later continued his studies at the University of Pécs, where he earned his degree in violin performance. Alongside his classical training, the tradition of Hungarian Gypsy music inherited from his family has always remained an important part of his musical identity.
Throughout his career, Farkis Béla has performed in numerous countries around the world, both as a member of various ensembles and as a soloist. His artistry naturally brings together classical violin playing and the rich tradition of Hungarian Gypsy music.
He has also achieved notable success as a primás. At the Balatonfüred Primás Competition, he received special prizes in 2017 and 2019 and achieved a shared second place in 2021. He is also active in classical chamber music and has performed as first violinist of the Goldmark Quartet.
With the Pannon Orchestra
As a violinist of the Pannon Cigányzenekar, Farkis Béla brings together his classical training, international stage experience and the Gypsy musical tradition passed down through generations of his family.
Awards and Honours
2017 – Balatonfüred Primás Competition, Special Prize
2019 – Balatonfüred Primás Competition, Special Prize
2021 – Balatonfüred Primás Competition, shared 2nd place
Something Few People Know About Me
Music is a true family heritage for me: my father is a clarinettist and my grandfather was a primás. Although I earned my degree as a classical violinist, Gypsy music has always remained especially close to my heart. To me, these two musical worlds are not separate – they are both part of who I am as a musician.