Role

:

Conductor

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Concerto

 

Russell Gloyd is a renowned classical music artist who has made significant contributions to the world of music as a conductor, producer, and educator. Born on August 22, 1937, in Portland, Oregon, Gloyd grew up in a family that valued music and the arts. His father was a violinist, and his mother was a pianist, which exposed him to music at an early age. Gloyd's passion for music led him to pursue a degree in music education at the University of Oregon. After completing his undergraduate studies, he went on to earn a master's degree in music from the University of Southern California. During his time at USC, Gloyd studied conducting with the legendary conductor, Fritz Zweig. After completing his studies, Gloyd began his career as a music educator, teaching at various schools and universities across the United States. In 1968, he was appointed as the conductor of the Eugene Symphony Orchestra in Oregon, a position he held for 14 years. During his tenure, Gloyd transformed the orchestra into a world-class ensemble, earning critical acclaim for his innovative programming and dynamic performances. In addition to his work with the Eugene Symphony Orchestra, Gloyd also served as the conductor of the Portland Youth Philharmonic and the Oregon Bach Festival. He also conducted numerous orchestras and opera companies across the United States and Europe, including the San Francisco Opera, the Seattle Opera, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London. One of Gloyd's most significant achievements was his collaboration with the legendary composer and conductor, Leonard Bernstein. In 1979, Gloyd was appointed as the producer of Bernstein's Young People's Concerts with the New York Philharmonic. The concerts, which were broadcast on national television, introduced millions of young people to classical music and helped to popularize the genre. Gloyd's work with Bernstein continued throughout the 1980s, as he served as the producer and conductor of several of Bernstein's major works, including the opera, A Quiet Place, and the musical, Candide. Gloyd's collaboration with Bernstein was a highlight of his career, and he credits the experience with shaping his approach to music and conducting. Throughout his career, Gloyd has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of music. In 1991, he was awarded the Oregon Governor's Arts Award for his outstanding achievements in music education and performance. He was also awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Oregon in 1997. In addition to his work as a conductor and producer, Gloyd has also been an influential music educator. He has taught at several universities, including the University of Oregon, the University of Southern California, and the University of Washington. He has also served as a guest lecturer and conductor at numerous music festivals and workshops around the world. Today, Gloyd continues to be an active member of the classical music community. He serves as the conductor emeritus of the Eugene Symphony Orchestra and remains a sought-after guest conductor and producer. His contributions to the world of music have been significant, and his legacy as a conductor, producer, and educator will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.

More....