Harry Shirinian was born on August 12, 1955, in Los Angeles, California. He grew up in a family of musicians, with his father being a violinist and his mother a pianist. From a young age, Shirinian showed a natural talent for music and began playing the piano at the age of four. Shirinian's parents recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. He began taking piano lessons with renowned pianist and teacher, Dorothy Taubman, who helped him develop his technique and musicality. Shirinian also studied with other notable teachers, including Aube Tzerko and Rosina Lhevinne. In 1973, Shirinian graduated from the Juilliard School in New York City with a Bachelor of Music degree. He then went on to earn a Master of Music degree from the same institution in 1975. After completing his studies, Shirinian began performing as a soloist and chamber musician. He quickly gained recognition for his virtuosic playing and musical sensitivity. In 1977, he won the prestigious Young Concert Artists International Auditions, which led to numerous performances throughout the United States and Europe. Throughout his career, Shirinian has performed with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. He has also collaborated with renowned conductors such as Leonard Bernstein, Zubin Mehta, and Seiji Ozawa. In addition to his solo performances, Shirinian is also a dedicated chamber musician. He has performed with many of the world's leading chamber ensembles, including the Emerson String Quartet, the Guarneri String Quartet, and the Tokyo String Quartet. Shirinian's repertoire is vast and includes works by many of the great composers, including Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, and Mozart. He is particularly known for his interpretations of the music of Sergei Rachmaninoff, whose works he has recorded extensively. In addition to his performing career, Shirinian is also a respected teacher. He has taught at many institutions, including the Juilliard School, the Manhattan School of Music, and the New England Conservatory of Music. Many of his students have gone on to successful careers as performers and teachers. Throughout his career, Shirinian has received numerous awards and honors. In addition to his Young Concert Artists International Auditions win, he has also been awarded the Avery Fisher Career Grant and the Naumburg International Piano Competition. He was also a recipient of the prestigious National Endowment for the Arts Solo Recitalist Fellowship. In conclusion, Harry Shirinian is a highly respected and accomplished classical pianist. His virtuosic playing and musical sensitivity have earned him a place among the world's leading musicians. His extensive repertoire and dedication to teaching have also made him a valuable contributor to the world of classical music.

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