Birth

:

November 3, 1936 in Goshen, IN

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Judy Loman is a renowned Canadian harpist who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on October 18, 1936, in Hamilton, Ontario, Loman grew up in a musical family. Her father was a violinist, and her mother was a pianist. Loman started playing the piano at the age of four, but it was not until she was 12 that she discovered her love for the harp. Loman's parents were supportive of her musical aspirations, and they enrolled her in the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto. She studied under the tutelage of Judy Loman, who was a renowned harpist at the time. Loman's talent and dedication to the harp were evident from an early age, and she quickly became one of the most promising young harpists in Canada. In 1959, Loman won the prestigious CBC Talent Festival, which was a significant milestone in her career. The win gave her the opportunity to perform with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, which was a dream come true for the young harpist. Loman continued to study at the Royal Conservatory of Music, and in 1960, she graduated with a degree in harp performance. After graduation, Loman began her professional career as a harpist. She joined the Toronto Symphony Orchestra as their principal harpist, a position she held for 18 years. During her time with the orchestra, Loman performed in countless concerts and recordings, and she became known for her exceptional talent and musicality. In addition to her work with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Loman also pursued a solo career. She performed in recitals and concerts across Canada and the United States, and she quickly gained a reputation as one of the best harpists in the world. Loman's repertoire included works by some of the most famous composers in classical music, including Bach, Handel, Mozart, and Debussy. One of the highlights of Loman's career was her performance at the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal. She was chosen to perform the national anthem of Canada during the opening ceremonies, which was a great honor for the harpist. Loman's performance was widely praised, and it helped to raise her profile both in Canada and around the world. Throughout her career, Loman has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to classical music. In 1980, she was awarded the Order of Canada, which is one of the highest honors that can be bestowed upon a Canadian citizen. She has also received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Toronto Arts Award, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Canadian Harp Society. Loman has also been a dedicated teacher throughout her career. She has taught at the University of Toronto, the Royal Conservatory of Music, and the Banff Centre for the Arts. Many of her students have gone on to have successful careers as harpists, and Loman's influence on the world of classical music has been significant. Today, Loman is retired from performing, but she continues to be an active member of the classical music community. She is a sought-after adjudicator for music competitions, and she is a frequent guest lecturer at universities and music schools across Canada. Loman's legacy as a harpist and teacher is secure, and she will always be remembered as one of the greatest harpists of her generation.

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