Role

:

Ensemble

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Duo Concertante is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1997 by violinist Nancy Dahn and pianist Timothy Steeves. The duo has become known for their dynamic performances and their commitment to promoting Canadian music. Nancy Dahn was born in New York City and began playing the violin at the age of six. She went on to study at the Juilliard School and the University of Toronto, where she earned her doctorate. Timothy Steeves was born in Newfoundland and began playing the piano at the age of four. He studied at the University of Toronto and the Juilliard School, where he earned his master's degree. Dahn and Steeves met in 1994 when they were both teaching at Memorial University in Newfoundland. They quickly discovered a shared passion for chamber music and began performing together as Duo Concertante. The duo's name comes from the Italian term "concertante," which means "concerting" or "playing together." Duo Concertante has become known for their innovative programming, which often includes works by Canadian composers. The duo has commissioned and premiered numerous works by Canadian composers, including Andrew Staniland, Chan Ka Nin, and Omar Daniel. They have also recorded several albums of Canadian music, including "Incarnation" and "Wild Bird." In addition to their work promoting Canadian music, Duo Concertante has also performed extensively throughout North America and Europe. They have appeared at major festivals and concert series, including the Ottawa Chamberfest, the Banff Centre for the Arts, and the Festival of the Sound. They have also performed with numerous orchestras, including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the National Arts Centre Orchestra, and the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra. Duo Concertante has received numerous awards and accolades for their performances and recordings. In 2005, they were awarded the Canadian Music Centre's "Friends of Canadian Music Award" for their work promoting Canadian music. They have also been nominated for several East Coast Music Awards and have won the award for "Classical Recording of the Year" twice. One of Duo Concertante's most memorable performances was their 2010 concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City. The duo performed works by Canadian composers, including John Burge and Jacques Hétu, to critical acclaim. The New York Times praised their "impressive technique and musicianship" and noted that they "played with a sense of joy and discovery." Duo Concertante continues to perform and record together, and they remain committed to promoting Canadian music and collaborating with Canadian composers. They have also established the "Duo Concertante Young Artist Program," which provides mentorship and performance opportunities for young musicians in Newfoundland and Labrador. In conclusion, Duo Concertante is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1997 by violinist Nancy Dahn and pianist Timothy Steeves. The duo has become known for their dynamic performances and their commitment to promoting Canadian music. They have performed extensively throughout North America and Europe and have received numerous awards and accolades for their performances and recordings. Duo Concertante continues to be a leading force in the world of chamber music and Canadian music.

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