Role

:

Conductor  

Period

:

Renaissance

 

 

Baroque

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Choral

 

 

Concerto

 

Ivars Taurins is a renowned conductor, baritone, and early music specialist. He was born on October 17, 1953, in Toronto, Canada, to Latvian parents who had fled their homeland during World War II. Taurins grew up in a musical family, with his father being a choir conductor and his mother a pianist. He began his musical training at a young age, studying piano, violin, and voice. Taurins attended the University of Toronto, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in voice and choral conducting. He continued his studies at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto, where he received a diploma in choral conducting. He also studied at the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis in Switzerland, where he specialized in early music. In 1981, Taurins co-founded the Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra with Jeanne Lamon. The ensemble quickly gained a reputation for its innovative and dynamic performances of Baroque music. Taurins served as the choir director and baritone soloist for the group, as well as a frequent guest conductor. Under Taurins' leadership, Tafelmusik became one of the most respected early music ensembles in the world. The group has performed at major concert halls and festivals throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. Taurins has also led the orchestra in numerous recordings, including the critically acclaimed "Handel: Messiah" and "Bach: Mass in B Minor." In addition to his work with Tafelmusik, Taurins has conducted many other orchestras and choirs, including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the National Arts Centre Orchestra, and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. He has also served as the guest conductor for many international ensembles, including the Handel and Haydn Society in Boston and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment in London. Taurins has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 1991, he was awarded the Order of Canada, one of the country's highest civilian honors. He has also been awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and the Toronto Arts Award for Music. One of Taurins' most memorable performances was his conducting of Handel's "Messiah" at the Royal Albert Hall in London in 2009. The performance was part of the BBC Proms series and was broadcast live on television and radio. Taurins' interpretation of the piece was praised for its energy and clarity, and the performance received a standing ovation from the audience. Taurins is also known for his work as a baritone soloist. He has performed with many orchestras and choirs, including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, and the National Arts Centre Orchestra. He has also recorded several albums as a soloist, including "Bach: Cantatas for Bass" and "Handel: Arias for Bass." In addition to his work as a musician, Taurins is also a respected music educator. He has taught at the University of Toronto and the Royal Conservatory of Music, and has led many workshops and masterclasses for aspiring musicians. He is known for his passionate and engaging teaching style, and has inspired many young musicians to pursue careers in classical music. In conclusion, Ivars Taurins is a highly respected conductor, baritone, and early music specialist. His contributions to the world of classical music have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, and his innovative and dynamic performances have inspired audiences around the world.

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