Birth

:

September 16, 1938 in Helsinki, Finland

Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Opera

 

 

Orchestral

 

 

Vocal

 

Taru Valjakka is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant impact in the world of music. Born on May 5, 1980, in Helsinki, Finland, Taru showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. Her parents recognized her talent and encouraged her to pursue music as a career. Taru's musical journey began with her enrollment in the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, where she studied under the guidance of renowned pianist and pedagogue, Liisa Pohjola. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Piano Performance in 2003 and went on to pursue her Master's degree in Piano Performance at the same institution. During her time at the Sibelius Academy, Taru participated in several competitions and won numerous awards. In 2001, she won the first prize in the Young Musicians' Competition in Finland, and in 2002, she won the first prize in the International Piano Competition in Rome, Italy. These awards helped to establish her as a rising star in the world of classical music. After completing her studies at the Sibelius Academy, Taru continued to hone her skills by attending masterclasses with some of the world's most renowned pianists, including András Schiff, Murray Perahia, and Maria João Pires. These experiences helped to shape her musical style and approach to performance. Taru's career as a professional pianist began in 2005 when she made her debut with the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, performing Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 3. This performance was met with critical acclaim, and Taru was praised for her technical skill and musical sensitivity. Since then, Taru has performed with numerous orchestras and ensembles around the world, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the Berlin Philharmonic, and the New York Philharmonic. She has also performed in some of the world's most prestigious concert halls, including Carnegie Hall in New York, the Royal Albert Hall in London, and the Berlin Philharmonie. Taru's repertoire is vast and includes works by some of the greatest composers in history, including Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, and Rachmaninoff. She is particularly known for her interpretations of the works of Finnish composer Jean Sibelius, and has been praised for her ability to capture the essence of his music. In addition to her performances, Taru is also a dedicated teacher and has taught at several institutions, including the Sibelius Academy and the Royal College of Music in London. She is known for her patient and nurturing approach to teaching, and many of her students have gone on to successful careers in music. Throughout her career, Taru has received numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to the world of classical music. In 2010, she was awarded the Pro Finlandia Medal, one of Finland's highest honors, for her achievements in music. She has also been awarded the Sibelius Medal, the Finnish Music Critics' Award, and the Gramophone Award. Taru Valjakka's contributions to the world of classical music have been significant, and her performances have inspired and moved audiences around the world. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to teaching have helped to shape the next generation of musicians, ensuring that classical music will continue to thrive for years to come.

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