Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

in Charleston, WV

Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Larry Combs is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music. He was born on December 31, 1949, in DeKalb, Illinois, USA. Combs grew up in a musical family, and his father was a band director. He started playing the clarinet at the age of nine and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. Combs attended Northern Illinois University, where he studied under the tutelage of renowned clarinetist Clark Brody. He graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in 1971 and went on to pursue a Master of Music degree at Northwestern University. During his time at Northwestern, Combs studied with Robert Marcellus, who was the principal clarinetist of the Cleveland Orchestra at the time. After completing his studies, Combs joined the Lyric Opera of Chicago Orchestra as the principal clarinetist in 1974. He held this position for 30 years and became one of the most respected and admired musicians in the orchestra. Combs was known for his impeccable technique, beautiful tone, and musical sensitivity, which made him a sought-after soloist and chamber musician. Combs was also a member of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra from 1978 to 2008, where he served as the principal clarinetist for 24 years. He was a regular soloist with the orchestra and performed under the baton of some of the world's most renowned conductors, including Sir Georg Solti, Daniel Barenboim, and Riccardo Muti. Throughout his career, Combs has been recognized for his outstanding musicianship and contributions to the world of music. He has received numerous awards and honors, including the National Endowment for the Arts Solo Recitalist Fellowship, the Chicago Tribune's "Musician of the Year" award, and the Illinois Council of Orchestras' "Lifetime Achievement" award. Combs has also been a dedicated teacher and mentor to young musicians. He has served on the faculty of Northwestern University, DePaul University, and Roosevelt University, where he has inspired and influenced countless students. One of the highlights of Combs' career was his performance of Mozart's Clarinet Concerto with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in 1986. The performance was recorded and released on CD, and it has become one of the most beloved recordings of the concerto. Combs' interpretation of the piece is widely regarded as one of the finest ever recorded, and it has inspired countless clarinetists around the world. Combs has also been a champion of contemporary music and has premiered numerous works by leading composers. He has collaborated with composers such as John Corigliano, William Bolcom, and Augusta Read Thomas, and has premiered works written specifically for him. Combs retired from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in 2008, but he continues to perform and teach. He is a member of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and has performed with the group at venues around the world. He also serves as the artistic director of the Rush Hour Concerts series in Chicago, which presents free classical music concerts during the summer months. In conclusion, Larry Combs is a true legend in the world of classical music. His impeccable musicianship, dedication to his craft, and commitment to teaching have made him a beloved figure in the music community. His contributions to the clarinet repertoire and his performances with some of the world's leading orchestras have inspired countless musicians and music lovers around the world.

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