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Heather Roche is a Canadian clarinetist who has made a name for herself in the world of contemporary classical music. Born in 1983 in Canada, Roche grew up in a musical family and began playing the clarinet at a young age. She went on to study at the University of British Columbia, where she earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 2005. She then moved to Germany to continue her studies, earning a Master of Music degree from the Hochschule für Musik und Theater in Hamburg in 2008. Roche's career as a professional musician began to take off in the years following her graduation from the Hochschule für Musik und Theater. She quickly established herself as a sought-after performer of contemporary music, and has since worked with some of the most prominent composers and ensembles in the field. She has performed as a soloist and chamber musician throughout Europe, North America, and Asia, and has been featured at numerous festivals and concert series. One of the highlights of Roche's career came in 2012, when she was awarded the prestigious DAAD Prize for outstanding achievements by foreign students and academics in Germany. The prize, which is awarded annually by the German Academic Exchange Service, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to their field of study or research. Roche was recognized for her work as a performer and advocate for contemporary music, and for her efforts to promote cultural exchange between Canada and Germany. Roche's repertoire as a clarinetist is focused primarily on contemporary music, and she has worked closely with many of the leading composers of our time. She has premiered numerous works written specifically for her, and has collaborated with composers such as Rebecca Saunders, Chaya Czernowin, and Michael Finnissy. She is also a member of the ensemble hand werk, a contemporary music ensemble based in Cologne, Germany, which has been praised for its innovative programming and virtuosic performances. In addition to her work as a performer, Roche is also an active researcher and educator. She has written extensively on contemporary music and performance practice, and has taught at institutions such as the University of Huddersfield and the Royal Northern College of Music. She is also a co-founder of the New Voices in Contemporary Music project, which aims to promote the work of emerging composers and performers in the field of contemporary music. Roche's contributions to the world of contemporary classical music have been widely recognized, and she has received numerous awards and accolades for her work. In addition to the DAAD Prize, she has been awarded the Kranichsteiner Musikpreis, the Tactus Young Composers Forum Prize, and the International Gaudeamus Interpreters Award, among others. She has also been featured in numerous publications and media outlets, including The Guardian, The New York Times, and BBC Radio 3. Overall, Heather Roche is a highly accomplished and respected musician who has made significant contributions to the world of contemporary classical music. Her virtuosic performances, innovative programming, and dedication to promoting the work of emerging composers have earned her a place among the leading performers and advocates for contemporary music today.

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