Country

:

United States of America

 

Matt Darriau is a renowned American musician, composer, and multi-instrumentalist who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. He was born on October 13, 1960, in Bloomington, Indiana, and grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a classical pianist, which exposed him to music at an early age. Darriau began playing the clarinet at the age of nine and later learned to play the saxophone, flute, and other wind instruments. He attended the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, where he studied jazz and classical music. During his time at the conservatory, he became interested in world music and began exploring different musical traditions. After graduating from the conservatory, Darriau moved to New York City, where he became involved in the city's vibrant music scene. He played with various jazz and world music groups, including the Klezmatics, a Grammy-winning klezmer band. He also formed his own group, Paradox Trio, which blended jazz, Balkan, and Middle Eastern music. Darriau's music is characterized by his virtuosic playing, innovative arrangements, and eclectic influences. He has collaborated with musicians from around the world and has performed in numerous prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Kennedy Center. One of Darriau's most significant contributions to classical music is his work in the field of klezmer music. Klezmer is a traditional Jewish music that originated in Eastern Europe and was popularized in the United States in the early 20th century. Darriau has been at the forefront of the klezmer revival, which began in the 1980s and has since become a global phenomenon. In addition to his work with the Klezmatics, Darriau has recorded several albums of klezmer music with his own groups, including Ballin' the Jack and Klezperanto. He has also composed music for films and television shows, including the soundtrack for the PBS documentary "The Jewish Americans." Darriau's contributions to classical music have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. In 2006, he was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship for his work in music composition. He has also received grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the New York State Council on the Arts. Darriau's music continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world. His innovative approach to classical music has helped to expand the boundaries of the genre and has brought new audiences to the music. He remains an active performer and composer, and his contributions to classical music are sure to be felt for many years to come.

More....