Birth

:

June 1, 1951 in Kansas City, MO

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

William Sharp is a renowned American baritone who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on December 16, 1952, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Sharp grew up in a family that valued music. His father was a church organist, and his mother was a choir director. As a child, Sharp was exposed to a wide range of music genres, including classical, jazz, and gospel. Sharp's love for music grew as he got older, and he began to take formal music lessons. He attended the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, where he studied voice under the tutelage of Jan DeGaetani. After completing his studies at Eastman, Sharp went on to earn a Master of Music degree from the Yale School of Music. Sharp's career as a professional musician began in the early 1980s when he started performing with various opera companies and orchestras. He quickly gained a reputation as a talented baritone with a rich, warm voice and a commanding stage presence. In 1985, Sharp made his debut with the New York Philharmonic, performing in a production of Benjamin Britten's War Requiem. Over the years, Sharp has performed with some of the world's most prestigious orchestras, including the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. He has also appeared in numerous operas, including productions of Mozart's Don Giovanni, Verdi's Falstaff, and Puccini's La Bohème. One of Sharp's most notable performances was his portrayal of the title character in the world premiere of John Harbison's opera The Great Gatsby. The production, which was staged by the Metropolitan Opera in 1999, received critical acclaim, and Sharp's performance was singled out for its emotional depth and musicality. In addition to his work as a performer, Sharp is also a respected music educator. He has taught voice at several universities, including the University of Michigan, the University of Illinois, and the University of Maryland. He has also served as a guest lecturer and masterclass instructor at numerous music schools and conservatories. Throughout his career, Sharp has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 1992, he was awarded the Richard Tucker Award, which is given annually to an outstanding American opera singer. He has also been honored with the George London Prize, the Marian Anderson Award, and the Opera Index Award. Sharp's recordings have also received critical acclaim. He has recorded several albums of art songs and lieder, including a collection of songs by American composer Samuel Barber. He has also recorded several operas, including a production of Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro with the London Philharmonic Orchestra. In recent years, Sharp has continued to perform and record, and he remains a beloved figure in the world of classical music. His rich, expressive voice and his commitment to musical excellence have made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike.

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