One day before the Belgian National Orchestra was to perform Antonín Dvořák's 'The New World,' concertmaster violist Alexei Moshkov unexpectedly passed away on October 29, 2025, at just 58 years old following a brief illness. He fell ill at an airport during an orchestra tour, which led to his passing. The NOB's concert the following day was dedicated to his memory.

Alexei Moshkov was born in 1968 in Moscow, where he received his musical education. He was a prize winner in several competitions in the former USSR. He would come to Belgium to become concertmaster of the Belgian National Orchestra in 1998.

For many years he was a remarkable figure and a constant presence at countless concerts of the orchestra. As concertmaster, he performed the violin solos of the orchestra in important orchestral works.

Since 2021, Alexei Moshkov taught violin at the Royal Conservatory Antwerp. There, they emphasize that he "had the gift of inspiring his students with his knowledge, his calm presence, and his love for the violin and music."

"Alexei was much more than a colleague—he was part of our orchestra family. His powerful presence will continue to resonate within us. We will remember him as an exceptional musician, a generous mentor, and a warm colleague," according to a statement from the NOB.