Birth

:

November 6, 1943

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Vocal

 

Ann Hobson Pilot is a renowned classical music artist who has made significant contributions to the world of music. She was born on November 16, 1943, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to a family of musicians. Her father, who was a jazz musician, played the piano, while her mother was a singer. Ann grew up in a musical environment, and her parents encouraged her to pursue music from a young age. Ann started playing the piano at the age of four, but she soon discovered her love for the harp. She began taking harp lessons at the age of nine and quickly became proficient in playing the instrument. She attended the Philadelphia High School for Girls, where she continued to hone her skills as a harpist. After high school, Ann attended the University of Michigan, where she earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Harp Performance. She then went on to study at the Cleveland Institute of Music, where she earned a Master of Music degree in Harp Performance. During her time at the Cleveland Institute of Music, Ann studied under Alice Chalifoux, who was one of the most renowned harpists of her time. After completing her studies, Ann began her career as a professional musician. She joined the Boston Symphony Orchestra in 1969, becoming the first African American woman to hold a principal position in a major symphony orchestra. She remained with the Boston Symphony Orchestra for 40 years, retiring in 2009. During her time with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Ann performed in numerous concerts and made several recordings. She also performed as a soloist with the orchestra, playing works by composers such as Mozart, Debussy, and Ginastera. In addition to her work with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Ann also performed with other orchestras, including the National Symphony Orchestra, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and the New York Philharmonic. Ann's talent as a harpist has been recognized with numerous awards and honors. In 1995, she was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. In 2000, she was awarded the African American Classical Music Award from the Sphinx Organization. In 2001, she was awarded the Boston Symphony Orchestra's Erich Leinsdorf Award for Excellence in Musical Performance. In 2006, she was awarded the Commonwealth Award, which is the highest honor given by the state of Massachusetts in the arts, humanities, and sciences. Ann's contributions to the world of music extend beyond her performances as a harpist. She has also been a mentor to many young musicians, particularly young women and people of color. She has served on the faculty of the Boston University College of Fine Arts and the Tanglewood Music Center, where she has taught and mentored young musicians. In addition to her work as a musician and mentor, Ann has also been an advocate for diversity in the arts. She has spoken out about the need for more diversity in orchestras and other arts organizations, and she has worked to create opportunities for young musicians from underrepresented communities. Ann's legacy as a musician and advocate for diversity in the arts continues to inspire and influence musicians and music lovers around the world. Her talent, dedication, and passion for music have made her a true icon in the world of classical music.

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