About Maestro Candidate Ms. Ruth Kiralfy!

Ruth Kiralfy is the oldest Maestro for a Moment candidate at the age of 99!

Ms. Kiralfy is one of five candidates vying to be the 2016 Maestro for a Moment! To vote for your favorites candidate of candidates click here. To learn more about Maestro for a Moment 2016 click here.

Title: Ninety-Nine years young and still making music!

Quote: My motto is Live, Love, and Laugh for as long as you can! I have loved music for ninety-nine years which has brought me great joy. Help me spread my love of music to the next generation of young musicians in the YOGC.

Bio: My first musical performance was in Charleston, South Carolina, more than 90 years ago. I had a German piano teacher who used the “ruler to the knuckles” motivational approach that I will never forget! I attended the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, Illinois, where I studied religious music, played the piano and sang in the choir. I was chosen to sing in a choral ensemble on the radio that included the late George Beverly Shea, who was well known for his gospel music and solo performances at Billy Graham Crusades. I played the piano for the Pacific Garden Mission services in Chicago and also for the Star Gospel Mission services in Charleston. I sang in the First Baptist Church choir for 35 years. I have two children, my son Rich who lives in Smyrna and my daughter Jane who lives in Nashville. Both of my children graduated from Hardaway High School and Rich played the French horn in the high school band. I have been a lifelong advocate for the arts and supporter of community programs for our youth through my church and the Kiwanis Club of Columbus.