Famous Russian Gypsy violinist during period of WW II

ORIGINAL EMAIL:


"I am a veteran of WW II and am preparing a memoir of that experience
for my family. To include in this I'd like to find a name I cannot
recall. My unit (82d Airborne Division) occupied Berlin after the
German surrender. During that period my regimental commander found a
famous Gypsy violinist to entertain us. He was a master and we became
friends. I think he was of a Russian Gypsy tribe. His is the name I
cannot recall - my memory is now 87 yeas old - and because of his fame
I'd like to include this name in my story. Can you think of a possible
name? If so I'd greatly appreciate your informing me."...

....."I remember him as a large man between medium and tall, a broad
face and large mouth, very dramatic, with large, sweeping gestures and
very outgoing. He had some fame then and post war. I mentioned his name
to bands in New York and in Budapest after the war and he was well
known. He made recordings post war and at one time I had one. In Berlin
he was always accompanied by a small man who played an accompaniment as
he played the main melody."....


Many thanks,
BG (Ret.) Edward H. Thomas
"Ed Thomas"
Wednesday 24th July at Llangollen Town Hall

Carthy Swarbrick have passed into folk legend and the next generation
is now upon us. Eliza Carthy has more than followed in her parents'
footsteps and now comes Simon Swarbrick with the Band of Jays, which
features amongst others Lucy Watkins and, recently returned from
touring with Norah Jones no less, Robbie McIntosh, who has played,
recorde