The family of a world class musician said he would be remembered for his “humour, energy and enthusiasm” after his death aged 79.

Violinist Sergei Bezkorvany, of Coval Road, East Sheen, performed with some of the world’s most famous orchestras and had a great love for music.

His daughter Nadia Bezkorvany, 39, said he would be deeply missed not just by his family but by the community as a whole.

She said: “He will be missed for his humour - his wonderful sense of humour. And his energy - he had so much energy and was willing to help everybody.

“He had such warmth and love.”

The son of a Ukrainian immigrant family, Mr Bezkorvany made his name as a violinist performing with Sadler’s Wells Orchestra and the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

Having originally trained at Julliard music school in New York, the Canadian-born musician also performed with the New Philharmonia Orchestra and was leader of the London Festival Ballet. He also recorded an album of composer Joseph Gibbs’ 18th century chamber music.

Married for 44 years, he shared his passion for music with his wife Suzanne, 78, a fellow musician who he met at a performance in Canada.

She said: “We had a long musical life together.

“He was a dedicated musician and a person who loved what he did. He even used to joke that he had six fingers not five.

“He was a man who was devoted all the time.”

In his later years the accomplished violinist, who lived in East Sheen for 44 years, was known throughout the borough as a patient teacher who enjoyed running lessons for young music students across Richmond. He was also a former classical music reviewer for the Richmond and Twickenham Times.

Mrs Bezkorvany said: “My husband was a very simple and humble man. He was very worthy but mainly he was just a true musician who we will all miss.”

The musician suffered a series of strokes last year and a range of complications involving his heart. He died on May 27.

Mr Bezkorvany’s funeral takes place at Mortlake Crematorium on June 17 at 2pm.