Violinist María Dueñas is a special Classical Californian in this week's featurette. In celebration of her new album released by Deutsche Grammophon (August 28), Homage to Heifetz, this edition of Classical Californians features her performance of Erich Wolfgang Korngold’s Violin Concerto in D Major, a lyrical and virtuosic work closely associated with the legendary Jascha Heifetz, who premiered the concerto. Read Maria's conversation with Classical Californians producer, Sarah Zwinklis below.

Homage to Heifetz available now.

María Dueñas on Homage to Heifetz

This interview has been edited for clarity

Sarah Zwinklis: Jascha Heifetz has been a major inspiration in your life. What made you want to dedicate an album to him?

María Dueñas: The goal was never to imitate Heifetz. That's impossible. Instead, I wanted to honor the importance he had in my development as a violinist. When you're young, it's important to have someone who inspires you and motivates you to keep doing what you love. In many ways, this album is about my childhood, my artistic growth, and my connection to Spain.

Sarah Zwinklis: One of the album's major works is Lalo's Symphonie Espagnole. What does that piece mean to you?

María Dueñas: I first performed it when I was 11 years old, so I've lived with it for more than a decade. My understanding of it has evolved over the years. At first I approached it from a very Spanish perspective, but later I became more aware of its French elegance and refinement. The piece reflects my growth as an artist.

Sarah Zwinklis: How did working on this album change your view of Heifetz?

María Dueñas: What fascinates me is the contrast between his public image and his playing. He often seemed reserved, yet his sound is incredibly warm and human. I also admire how creative he was, not only as a performer, but as an arranger, composer, and recording artist. He left behind an extraordinary legacy.

Sarah Zwinklis: How has that influenced your own approach to music-making?

María Dueñas: I trust my intuition. When I begin learning a new concerto, I prefer not to listen to many recordings right away. I want my first response to the music to be my own. Later I'll explore other interpretations and traditions, but I always try to preserve that initial, honest reaction.

Sarah Zwinklis: You recorded this album with Gustavo Dudamel and the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra. What made that collaboration special?

María Dueñas: Having Gustavo Dudamel involved was essential for me. We share a similar understanding of music, particularly repertoire with strong Spanish influences. He has an incredible ability to inspire everyone around him and bring people together around a shared musical vision.

Sarah Zwinklis: You have described this project as a reflection of your childhood. What do you hope listeners take away from it?

María Dueñas: Curiosity was very important to me growing up, and it still is. Music wasn't my entire world. I also loved swimming, reading, and writing. That balance helped music feel natural and joyful. I hope listeners discover something new in this repertoire and simply enjoy the experience of listening.

Sarah Zwinklis: What do you hope young musicians might take from your story?

María Dueñas: I hope they see that it's possible to follow this path even if you don't come from a musical family. My parents aren't musicians, and I had to discover many things on my own. Where you're born doesn't determine what you can achieve.