Birth

:

1969 in Colorado

Genre

:

Opera

 

 

Symphony

 

Michelle DeYoung is a renowned American mezzo-soprano who has established herself as one of the leading classical music artists of her generation. Born on November 14, 1966, in Castro Valley, California, DeYoung grew up in a musical family and began singing at a young age. Her mother was a church choir director, and her father played the trumpet. DeYoung's love for music was nurtured by her parents, who encouraged her to pursue her passion for singing. DeYoung attended San Francisco State University, where she studied music and voice. She later received a scholarship to attend the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, where she studied with Jane Randolph. DeYoung's talent was evident from an early age, and she quickly gained recognition for her powerful voice and expressive performances. DeYoung made her professional debut in 1993, singing the role of the Second Lady in Mozart's "The Magic Flute" with the San Francisco Opera. She quickly gained a reputation as a rising star in the opera world, and her career took off. DeYoung has since performed with many of the world's leading opera companies, including the Metropolitan Opera, the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, the Paris Opera, and the Berlin State Opera. One of DeYoung's most notable performances was her portrayal of Kundry in Wagner's "Parsifal" at the Metropolitan Opera in 2008. The New York Times praised her performance, saying, "Ms. DeYoung's Kundry was a revelation, a portrayal of a woman who has suffered and sinned but who is ultimately redeemed by love." DeYoung has also received critical acclaim for her performances in other Wagner operas, including "Tristan und Isolde" and "Die Walküre." In addition to her opera performances, DeYoung is also a sought-after concert artist. She has performed with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. DeYoung has also collaborated with many of the world's leading conductors, including James Levine, Sir Simon Rattle, and Daniel Barenboim. DeYoung's repertoire is diverse, and she is known for her interpretations of works by composers ranging from Bach to Mahler. She has recorded several albums, including "Mahler: Songs of a Wayfarer" and "Wagner: Wesendonck Lieder." DeYoung's recordings have received critical acclaim and have earned her several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Classical Vocal Performance in 2003. DeYoung has also been recognized for her contributions to the arts. In 2007, she was awarded the Richard Tucker Award, which is given annually to an American opera singer who is on the verge of a major international career. DeYoung was also named a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2015. Despite her success, DeYoung remains humble and dedicated to her craft. She is known for her warm personality and her commitment to mentoring young singers. DeYoung has taught master classes at several universities and conservatories, including the Juilliard School and the Curtis Institute of Music. In conclusion, Michelle DeYoung is a gifted mezzo-soprano who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Her powerful voice, expressive performances, and diverse repertoire have earned her critical acclaim and a loyal following.

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