Country

:

Netherlands

Birth

:

February 8, 1933 in Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

Elly Ameling is a renowned Dutch classical music artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music through her exceptional vocal abilities. Born on February 8, 1933, in Rotterdam, Netherlands, Ameling grew up in a family that was passionate about music. Her father was a conductor, and her mother was a pianist, which exposed her to music at a young age. Ameling began her musical journey by studying piano and violin, but it was her singing that stood out. She started taking singing lessons at the age of 18 with Bodi Rapp, a renowned Dutch soprano. Her talent was evident from the start, and she quickly gained recognition for her exceptional voice. In 1956, Ameling won the first prize at the International Vocal Competition in 's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, which marked the beginning of her professional career. She went on to study at the Amsterdam Conservatory with Bodi Rapp and later with Pierre Bernac in Paris, where she honed her skills and developed her unique style. Ameling's career took off in the 1960s when she started performing in major concert halls across Europe and the United States. She was known for her clear and pure voice, which was perfectly suited for the classical repertoire. Her performances were characterized by her impeccable technique, musicality, and emotional depth, which captivated audiences and critics alike. One of the highlights of Ameling's career was her performance of Bach's St. Matthew Passion with the Amsterdam Concertgebouw Orchestra in 1965. Her rendition of the aria "Erbarme dich" was particularly memorable, and it cemented her reputation as one of the finest interpreters of Bach's music. Ameling's repertoire was not limited to Bach, however. She was equally at home performing works by Mozart, Schubert, Brahms, and other classical composers. Her performances of Schubert's lieder were particularly acclaimed, and she recorded several albums of his songs throughout her career. In addition to her solo performances, Ameling was also a sought-after collaborator. She worked with many of the leading conductors and orchestras of her time, including Bernard Haitink, Neville Marriner, and the London Symphony Orchestra. She also performed with other renowned singers, such as Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau and Janet Baker, in duet recitals that were highly praised. Ameling's talent was recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout her career. In 1971, she was awarded the Order of Orange-Nassau, a prestigious Dutch honor, for her contributions to music. She was also made a Knight of the Order of the Netherlands Lion in 1982. In 1978, Ameling was awarded the Edison Award, the most prestigious music award in the Netherlands, for her album of Schubert's lieder. She went on to win several more Edison Awards throughout her career, including one for her album of Mozart's concert arias in 1984. Ameling retired from performing in 1996, but her legacy lives on through her recordings and the many musicians she inspired. Her exceptional talent, musicality, and dedication to her craft have made her one of the most beloved classical music artists of all time.

More....