Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Vocal

 

Laura Oltman is a renowned classical guitarist and co-founder of the guitar duo, Duo 46. She was born in New York City and grew up in a family of musicians. Her father was a jazz pianist and her mother was a classical pianist. Oltman began playing the guitar at the age of 10 and quickly fell in love with the instrument. Oltman studied at the Manhattan School of Music and later at the Juilliard School, where she earned her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in guitar performance. During her studies, she was mentored by renowned guitarists such as Sharon Isbin and David Starobin. In 1986, Oltman co-founded Duo 46 with her husband, Michael Newman. The duo quickly gained recognition for their innovative programming and virtuosic performances. They have performed at major venues and festivals around the world, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Ravinia Festival. Oltman has also performed as a soloist with orchestras such as the New York Philharmonic and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. She has recorded several albums, including "Duo 46 Plays Music of the Americas" and "Guitar Duos of the 20th Century." In addition to her performing career, Oltman is also a dedicated educator. She has taught at the Mannes College of Music, the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music, and the University of Notre Dame. She is currently on the faculty at the Conservatory of Music at Purchase College. Oltman has received numerous awards and honors throughout her career. In 1996, she was awarded the prestigious "Artists International Award" for her outstanding contributions to the arts. She has also been a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts Solo Recitalist Grant and the New York State Council on the Arts Grant. Oltman's contributions to the classical guitar world have been significant. She has expanded the repertoire for the instrument through her collaborations with composers and her innovative programming. Her virtuosic performances and dedication to education have inspired countless young guitarists around the world.

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