Country

:

United States of America

Period

:

Baroque

 

 

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

 

Orchestral

 

John Cerminaro was a renowned classical music artist who was born on August 22, 1946, in Los Angeles, California. He was a gifted musician who started playing the French horn at the age of 10. His father, who was a professional musician, recognized his son's talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Cerminaro attended the University of Southern California, where he studied with legendary horn player James Decker. He graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in 1968 and went on to earn a Master of Music degree from the same institution in 1970. After completing his studies, Cerminaro began his professional career as a member of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra. He played with the orchestra for 32 years, from 1970 to 2002, and was widely regarded as one of the finest French horn players of his generation. Cerminaro's talent and dedication to his craft were evident from an early age. He won numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant in 1978. He was also a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts Solo Recitalist Award and the Coleman Chamber Music Award. In addition to his work with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Cerminaro was a sought-after soloist and chamber musician. He performed with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. Cerminaro was also a dedicated teacher and mentor to young musicians. He served on the faculty of the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music and was a frequent guest lecturer and masterclass instructor at music schools and conservatories around the world. One of the highlights of Cerminaro's career was his performance of Richard Strauss's Horn Concerto No. 1 with the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 1988. The performance was recorded and released on CD, and it remains one of the definitive recordings of the piece. Cerminaro was also known for his collaborations with other musicians and composers. He worked closely with composer John Williams on many film scores, including the Star Wars and Indiana Jones franchises. He also performed with jazz legend Herbie Hancock on his album Gershwin's World, which won a Grammy Award for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album in 1999. Cerminaro's career was tragically cut short when he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, in 2001. Despite his illness, he continued to perform and teach for as long as he was able. He passed away on December 26, 2005, at the age of 59. In recognition of his contributions to the world of classical music, the John Cerminaro Memorial Scholarship was established at the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music. The scholarship is awarded annually to a French horn student who demonstrates exceptional talent and dedication to the instrument. John Cerminaro was a true master of his craft, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world. His dedication to his art, his generosity as a teacher and mentor, and his unwavering commitment to excellence will always be remembered and celebrated.

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