Role

:

Composer Performer

Birth

:

June 18, 1977 in Shanghai, China

 

Du Yun is a Chinese-born composer, performer, and activist who has made a significant impact on the world of classical music. Born on July 31, 1977, in Shanghai, China, Du Yun grew up in a family of musicians. Her father was a composer and conductor, and her mother was a singer. From a young age, Du Yun was exposed to a wide range of musical styles, from traditional Chinese music to Western classical music. Du Yun began her formal music education at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, where she studied composition and piano. After completing her undergraduate degree, she moved to the United States to pursue a master's degree in composition at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music. She later earned a doctorate in composition from Harvard University. Throughout her career, Du Yun has been recognized for her innovative and boundary-pushing compositions. Her works often incorporate elements of rock, pop, and electronic music, as well as traditional Chinese music. She has been praised for her ability to blend these disparate styles into a cohesive whole, creating music that is both challenging and accessible. One of Du Yun's most notable works is her opera "Angel's Bone," which premiered in 2016. The opera tells the story of two angels who fall to earth and are taken in by a suburban couple. The work explores themes of exploitation, abuse, and redemption, and has been praised for its powerful and emotional impact. "Angel's Bone" won the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for Music, making Du Yun the first woman of color to receive the award. In addition to her work as a composer, Du Yun is also an accomplished performer. She is a skilled pianist and vocalist, and often incorporates her own performances into her compositions. She has performed at venues around the world, including Carnegie Hall, the Lincoln Center, and the Sydney Opera House. Du Yun is also a passionate advocate for social justice and human rights. She has used her music as a platform to raise awareness about issues such as police brutality, immigration, and gender inequality. In 2017, she founded the Pan Asia Sounding Festival, which showcases the work of Asian and Asian-American composers and performers. Overall, Du Yun's contributions to the world of classical music have been significant and far-reaching. Her innovative compositions and powerful performances have earned her numerous accolades and awards, and her commitment to social justice has made her a respected and influential voice in the music world and beyond.

More....