Role

:

Conductor  

Country

:

Canada

Birth

:

April 7, 1948 in Fredericton, NB

Period

:

Renaissance

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Choral

 

Robert Cooper is a renowned conductor and choral music specialist who has made significant contributions to the classical music industry. Born in Toronto, Canada, on August 22, 1956, Cooper developed a passion for music at a young age. He began his musical journey as a chorister at St. Michael's Choir School in Toronto, where he received his early training in choral music. Cooper's love for music continued to grow, and he went on to study music at the University of Toronto, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1978. He later pursued a Master of Music degree in choral conducting at the same institution, graduating in 1981. After completing his studies, Cooper began his career as a conductor and choral music specialist. He served as the conductor of the Orpheus Choir of Toronto from 1986 to 1997, during which time he led the choir in numerous performances and recordings. He also served as the conductor of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir from 1997 to 2017, during which time he established the choir as one of the leading choral ensembles in Canada. Throughout his career, Cooper has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the classical music industry. He has received numerous awards and honors, including the Order of Canada in 2013, which is one of the highest civilian honors in Canada. He has also been awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Toronto, and the Roy Thomson Hall Award for Artistic Leadership. Cooper's career highlights include conducting the Toronto Symphony Orchestra in a performance of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony in 2009, which was broadcast live on CBC Radio. He also conducted the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir in a performance of Verdi's Requiem in 2016, which was hailed as one of the most memorable performances of the year. In addition to his work as a conductor, Cooper is also a respected educator and mentor. He has taught choral conducting at the University of Toronto and has served as a mentor to many young conductors and musicians. He has also been a guest conductor for numerous choral ensembles around the world, including the National Youth Choir of Canada, the Vancouver Chamber Choir, and the Hong Kong Bach Choir. Cooper's contributions to the classical music industry have been significant, and his legacy as a conductor and choral music specialist will continue to inspire future generations of musicians. His dedication to excellence and his passion for music have made him one of the most respected figures in the industry, and his impact on the world of classical music will be felt for many years to come.

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