Role

:

Composer Performer

Birth

:

April 10, 1958 in Belize City, Belize

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Keyboard

 

 

Vocal

 

Errollyn Wallen is a British composer, singer, and pianist who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on April 8, 1958, in Belize City, Belize, Wallen grew up in a musical family. Her mother was a singer, and her father was a jazz musician. Wallen's family moved to London when she was two years old, and she grew up in a multicultural environment, which influenced her music. Wallen started playing the piano at the age of five and began composing music when she was eight. She studied at the Trinity College of Music in London and later at King's College, Cambridge, where she earned a degree in composition. Wallen also studied with the renowned composer, Harrison Birtwistle. Wallen's music is a fusion of classical, jazz, and world music. She has composed music for orchestras, chamber ensembles, and solo instruments. Her works have been performed by leading orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. One of Wallen's most famous works is "Daedalus in Flight," a concerto for violin and orchestra. The piece was commissioned by the London Symphony Orchestra and premiered in 1995. The concerto is inspired by the Greek myth of Daedalus, who built wings to escape from the island of Crete. The piece is known for its soaring melodies and virtuosic violin solos. Another notable work by Wallen is "Mighty River," a choral piece that was commissioned by the BBC for the 2012 Olympic Games. The piece is a tribute to the River Thames, which flows through London and was the site of many Olympic events. The piece features a choir, soloists, and a percussion ensemble and incorporates elements of gospel music and African rhythms. Wallen has also composed music for film and television. She wrote the score for the film "The Silent Twins," which tells the true story of June and Jennifer Gibbons, twin sisters who refused to speak to anyone but each other. Wallen's haunting score captures the eerie atmosphere of the film. In addition to her work as a composer, Wallen is also a singer and pianist. She has performed her own music and collaborated with other musicians, including the jazz saxophonist Courtney Pine. Wallen's singing voice is soulful and expressive, and her piano playing is virtuosic. Wallen has received numerous awards and honors for her work. In 2007, she was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for services to music. She has also been awarded the Ivor Novello Award for Classical Music and the British Composer Award. Wallen is known for her commitment to promoting diversity in classical music. She has spoken out about the lack of diversity in the classical music industry and has worked to create opportunities for musicians from underrepresented backgrounds. In 2018, she founded the "Equator Festival," which showcases music from around the world and promotes cultural exchange. In conclusion, Errollyn Wallen is a talented composer, singer, and pianist who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Her music is a fusion of classical, jazz, and world music, and her works have been performed by leading orchestras and ensembles. Wallen is also committed to promoting diversity in classical music and has worked to create opportunities for musicians from underrepresented backgrounds. Her music is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and inspire change.

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