Role

:

Composer Conductor  

Genre

:

Avant-Garde

 

 

Chamber

 

 

Vocal

 

John Fonville was a renowned classical music artist who made significant contributions to the world of contemporary music. He was born on August 22, 1949, in Los Angeles, California, and grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a singer, which exposed him to music at an early age. Fonville began his musical journey by learning to play the clarinet at the age of nine. He showed exceptional talent and quickly progressed, eventually earning a scholarship to study at the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts). There, he studied under the tutelage of renowned clarinetist and composer, William Powell. After completing his studies at CalArts, Fonville went on to earn a Master of Music degree from the University of Southern California (USC). He continued to hone his skills and develop his unique style, which blended classical and contemporary music. Fonville's career as a performer began in the 1970s when he joined the California E.A.R. Unit, a contemporary music ensemble based in Los Angeles. He quickly established himself as a leading figure in the contemporary music scene, performing with the group at major venues across the United States and Europe. In addition to his work with the California E.A.R. Unit, Fonville was also a member of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra. He performed with the orchestra for over a decade, from 1979 to 1990, and was known for his exceptional skill and versatility as a clarinetist. Throughout his career, Fonville was recognized for his contributions to the world of contemporary music. He received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Guggenheim Fellowship in 1985. The fellowship allowed him to travel to Europe and study with some of the leading composers and performers of the time. One of Fonville's most significant contributions to the world of music was his work as a composer. He wrote numerous pieces for various ensembles, including the California E.A.R. Unit and the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra. His compositions were known for their innovative use of sound and unconventional techniques, which challenged traditional notions of music. Fonville's most famous composition was "The Diamond Marimba," which he wrote in 1984. The piece was inspired by the marimba music of Zimbabwe and featured a unique instrument that Fonville had designed himself. The Diamond Marimba was performed at major venues across the United States and Europe and was widely acclaimed for its innovative use of sound and rhythm. In addition to his work as a performer and composer, Fonville was also a dedicated teacher. He taught at CalArts for over 20 years, where he mentored numerous students who went on to become successful musicians in their own right. Sadly, Fonville's career was cut short when he passed away in 2005 at the age of 56. However, his legacy lives on through his music and the countless musicians he inspired and mentored throughout his career. In conclusion, John Fonville was a remarkable musician who made significant contributions to the world of contemporary music. His unique style and innovative compositions challenged traditional notions of music and inspired countless musicians around the world. Despite his untimely passing, his legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians to this day.

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