Izhak Graziani

• Name — Izhak Graziani • Native Name — יצחק גרציאני • Nickname — Ziko • Born — 4 August 1924 • Birthplace — Ruse, Bulgaria • Died — 7 July 2003 • Place of death — Tel Aviv, Israel • Service Years — 1948-1952, 1962-2003 • Rank — Aluf Mishne

• Illustration — Memorial plaque in Tel Aviv Izhak ("Ziko") Graziani was born in Ruse, Bulgaria, where he studied music and conducting. In 1948, he immigrated to Israel and joined the IDF Orchestra as a trumpet player. Graziani died at his home in Ramat Aviv at the age of 79 and was buried in Kiryat Shaul Cemetery. He left behind a wife, Dora, two daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His daughter, Kochva Gal-Gratziani, is a choir conductor. A large street is named after him in Sofia. Street were named after him in Kfar Saba, Rosh Ha'Ayin and Tel Aviv

Graziani played with the orchestra until 1952. In 1960, after the retirement of conductor Shalom Ronli-Riklis, Graziani took his place. He went on to become conductor of the IBA Radio Orchestra (later renamed IBA Radio and TV Orchestra). Graziani was also music director of the Eurovision Song Contest 1979. Graziani retired in 2003 and died three months later. He collaborated with Leonard Bernstein.