Role

:

Performer

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Opera

 

Kenneth Schon was born on May 12, 1985, in New York City. He grew up in a family of musicians, with his mother being a pianist and his father a cellist. From a young age, Schon showed a natural talent for music and began playing the piano at the age of four. Schon's parents recognized his potential and enrolled him in the Juilliard School's Pre-College Division when he was just six years old. He studied under renowned pianist Yoheved Kaplinsky and quickly became one of her star pupils. Throughout his childhood and teenage years, Schon won numerous competitions and awards, including the prestigious Gina Bachauer International Piano Competition at the age of 14. He also performed as a soloist with several major orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. After graduating from the Juilliard School, Schon attended Harvard University, where he studied music and philosophy. He continued to perform and compete during his time at Harvard, winning the Harvard Concerto Competition and performing with the Harvard-Radcliffe Orchestra. After completing his undergraduate degree, Schon went on to earn a Master of Music degree from the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. While at Curtis, he studied under renowned pianist Gary Graffman and continued to win competitions and perform as a soloist with major orchestras. Schon's career as a professional pianist took off after he won the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in 2010. The competition, held every four years in Fort Worth, Texas, is one of the most prestigious piano competitions in the world. Schon's performance of Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 3 in the final round of the competition was hailed as a triumph, and he was awarded the gold medal. Following his victory at the Van Cliburn Competition, Schon embarked on a busy concert schedule, performing with major orchestras and at prestigious venues around the world. He also recorded several albums, including a critically acclaimed recording of Beethoven's Piano Sonatas. In addition to his performing career, Schon is also a dedicated teacher. He has taught masterclasses at several universities and conservatories, including the Juilliard School, the Curtis Institute of Music, and the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto. Throughout his career, Schon has received numerous awards and honors, including the Avery Fisher Career Grant and the Gilmore Artist Award. He has also been recognized for his philanthropic work, including his support of music education programs for underprivileged children. Today, Kenneth Schon is widely regarded as one of the most talented and accomplished pianists of his generation. His technical virtuosity and musical sensitivity have earned him a devoted following among classical music fans around the world, and his performances continue to inspire and captivate audiences.

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