Genre

:

Concerto

 

 

Opera

 

Sharlene Wallace is a renowned Canadian harpist and composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born in Toronto, Canada, in 1961, Sharlene grew up in a family of musicians and was exposed to music from a young age. Her father was a jazz pianist, and her mother was a singer, and they both encouraged Sharlene to pursue her passion for music. Sharlene began playing the harp at the age of nine and quickly fell in love with the instrument. She studied under the tutelage of Judy Loman, one of Canada's most celebrated harpists, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Toronto. She continued her studies at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto, where she earned a Performer's ARCT diploma in harp performance. Throughout her career, Sharlene has performed extensively as a soloist and chamber musician, both in Canada and internationally. She has collaborated with many renowned musicians, including cellist Yo-Yo Ma, flutist James Galway, and violinist Pinchas Zukerman. She has also performed with several orchestras, including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the National Arts Centre Orchestra, and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. One of Sharlene's most significant achievements was her performance at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games. She was selected to perform at the closing ceremony, where she played a solo harp piece that was broadcast to millions of viewers worldwide. The performance was widely praised for its beauty and elegance, and it helped to raise Sharlene's profile as a musician. In addition to her performances, Sharlene is also an accomplished composer. She has written numerous pieces for the harp, including solo works, chamber music, and orchestral pieces. Her compositions have been performed by many musicians and orchestras around the world, and she has received several awards for her work. One of Sharlene's most notable compositions is her harp concerto, "The Book of Love." The piece was commissioned by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and premiered in 2000, with Sharlene as the soloist. The concerto was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it has since been performed by several other orchestras. Sharlene has also received several awards and honors throughout her career. In 1991, she was awarded the prestigious Canada Council for the Arts' "Career Development Grant," which allowed her to further her studies and performances. In 2003, she was awarded the "Distinguished Alumni Award" from the University of Toronto's Faculty of Music, in recognition of her contributions to the music industry. In addition to her performances and compositions, Sharlene is also a dedicated teacher. She has taught at several institutions, including the University of Toronto, the Royal Conservatory of Music, and the Banff Centre for the Arts. She has also given masterclasses and workshops around the world, sharing her knowledge and expertise with aspiring musicians. In conclusion, Sharlene Wallace is a highly accomplished musician and composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Her performances, compositions, and teaching have all helped to elevate the harp as a solo instrument and have inspired countless musicians around the world. Her dedication to her craft and her passion for music continue to inspire audiences and musicians alike.

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