Birth

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January 6, 1949 in London, England

 

Chris Laurence is a renowned double bassist and composer in the world of classical music. Born on November 11, 1949, in London, England, Laurence grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a singer. He started playing the double bass at the age of 15 and quickly developed a passion for the instrument. Laurence studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he received a scholarship to study with James Merrett, the principal double bassist of the London Symphony Orchestra. After completing his studies, Laurence began his professional career as a freelance musician, performing with various orchestras and ensembles. In 1975, Laurence joined the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, one of the world's most renowned chamber orchestras. He quickly became a key member of the ensemble, performing on numerous recordings and tours. During his time with the Academy, Laurence also worked with other notable musicians, including pianist Martha Argerich and conductor Sir Neville Marriner. In addition to his work with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, Laurence has performed with many other orchestras and ensembles, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the London Philharmonic Orchestra, and the English Chamber Orchestra. He has also collaborated with numerous jazz musicians, including John Surman, Kenny Wheeler, and John Taylor. Laurence is also an accomplished composer, having written music for film, television, and the concert hall. His compositions have been performed by many leading orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Throughout his career, Laurence has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to classical music. In 1992, he was awarded the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to music. He has also been nominated for several Grammy Awards for his recordings with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields. One of Laurence's most notable performances was his appearance at the 2012 London Olympics opening ceremony. He was part of a group of musicians who performed the theme from the film Chariots of Fire as part of the ceremony's tribute to British film. Laurence continues to perform and record, and his contributions to classical music have earned him a reputation as one of the world's leading double bassists. His passion for the instrument and his dedication to his craft have inspired countless musicians and audiences around the world.

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