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Chamber

 

 

Vocal

 

Gloria Agostini is a renowned classical music artist who has made significant contributions to the world of music. Born on August 28, 1933, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Agostini grew up in a family of musicians. Her father, a violinist, and her mother, a pianist, instilled in her a love for music from a young age. Agostini began playing the harp at the age of nine and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. Agostini's early musical education was under the tutelage of renowned harpist Carlos Salzedo. She studied with him at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, where she received her Bachelor of Music degree in 1954. She continued her studies with Salzedo in New York City, where she became a member of his harp ensemble. Agostini's career as a professional harpist began in 1955 when she joined the New York City Ballet Orchestra. She remained with the orchestra for 25 years, during which time she became one of the most sought-after harpists in the world. She also performed with other major orchestras, including the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. One of the highlights of Agostini's career was her performance at the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy in 1961. She played the harp solo in the national anthem, which was broadcast to millions of people around the world. This performance brought Agostini widespread recognition and cemented her reputation as one of the top harpists in the world. Agostini's talent and dedication to her craft have earned her numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. In 1962, she was awarded the Harriet Hale Woolley Scholarship, which allowed her to study in Paris with renowned harpist Lily Laskine. She was also the recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts Solo Recitalist Award in 1976 and the American Harp Society Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004. In addition to her work as a performer, Agostini has also been a dedicated teacher and mentor to young harpists. She has taught at the Juilliard School, the Manhattan School of Music, and the Curtis Institute of Music, among others. Many of her students have gone on to successful careers as professional harpists. Agostini's repertoire includes a wide range of music, from classical to contemporary. She has premiered works by many notable composers, including Elliott Carter, Ned Rorem, and Lukas Foss. She has also recorded several albums, including "Harp Music of the Americas" and "Harp Music of France." Throughout her career, Agostini has been a trailblazer for women in classical music. She was one of the first female harpists to achieve international recognition and has inspired countless young women to pursue careers in music. Her dedication to her craft and her contributions to the world of music have earned her a place among the greats of classical music.

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