Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

December 22, 1953 in Los Angeles, CA

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Chamber

 

David Leisner is a renowned American classical guitarist, composer, and educator. He was born on October 22, 1953, in New York City, United States. Leisner grew up in a musical family, and his father was a violinist in the New York Philharmonic. He started playing the guitar at the age of eight and was soon recognized as a prodigy. Leisner studied with Aaron Shearer, a prominent guitar pedagogue, and later with Julian Bream, a legendary classical guitarist. Leisner's early career was marked by several awards and accolades. In 1975, he won the top prize at the Guitar Foundation of America Competition, which launched his international career. He went on to perform in major concert halls around the world, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Royal Albert Hall. Leisner's playing was praised for its technical brilliance, musicality, and emotional depth. In addition to his performing career, Leisner is also a prolific composer. He has written works for solo guitar, chamber ensembles, and orchestra. His compositions are known for their lyrical melodies, intricate harmonies, and innovative use of the guitar. Leisner's music has been performed and recorded by many leading musicians, including Sharon Isbin, Manuel Barrueco, and the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet. One of Leisner's most famous works is his Guitar Concerto, which was premiered by the Minnesota Orchestra in 1991. The concerto is a virtuosic showcase for the guitar, with a rich orchestral accompaniment. It has been performed by many leading guitarists, including Eliot Fisk, Pepe Romero, and David Russell. Leisner's other notable works for guitar include Dances in the Madhouse, Trittico, and Labyrinths. Leisner's chamber music works are also highly regarded. He has written several pieces for guitar and string quartet, including the critically acclaimed String Quartet No. 1, "Ghosts." The quartet is a haunting and atmospheric work that explores themes of memory, loss, and transcendence. Leisner has also written works for guitar and other instruments, such as the Sonata for Flute and Guitar and the Suite for Cello and Guitar. In addition to his composing and performing, Leisner is also a respected educator. He has taught at several prestigious institutions, including the Manhattan School of Music, the New England Conservatory, and the University of Southern California. Leisner's teaching is known for its emphasis on musical expression, technical mastery, and creativity. He has mentored many successful guitarists, including Jason Vieaux, William Kanengiser, and Ana Vidovic. Leisner's career has been marked by many highlights and achievements. In 1997, he was diagnosed with focal dystonia, a neurological condition that affects the muscles used in playing the guitar. Despite this setback, Leisner continued to perform and compose, and he developed new techniques and approaches to overcome his physical limitations. He has also been recognized for his contributions to the guitar world, receiving awards such as the Distinguished Artist Award from the Guitar Foundation of America and the Artistic Achievement Award from the American String Teachers Association. In conclusion, David Leisner is a highly accomplished and influential figure in the world of classical guitar. His playing, composing, and teaching have inspired countless musicians and audiences around the world.

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