Birth

:

March 19, 1949 in Preston, England

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Symphony

 

Carolyn Watkinson is a renowned mezzo-soprano who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on September 22, 1949, in Kingston upon Hull, England, Carolyn grew up in a musical family. Her father was a church organist, and her mother was a singer. Carolyn's parents recognized her musical talent at an early age and encouraged her to pursue a career in music. Carolyn began her musical training at the Royal College of Music in London, where she studied piano and voice. She later continued her studies at the Royal Academy of Music, where she received a scholarship to study with the renowned mezzo-soprano Kathleen Ferrier. Carolyn's talent and hard work paid off, and she won several awards and prizes during her time at the academy. In 1972, Carolyn made her professional debut at the Glyndebourne Festival Opera, where she played the role of Cherubino in Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro." Her performance was well-received, and it marked the beginning of a successful career in opera. Carolyn went on to perform in many other operas, including "Carmen," "Don Giovanni," and "The Magic Flute." One of Carolyn's most significant achievements was her performance in Handel's "Messiah" at the Royal Albert Hall in London in 1979. Her rendition of the aria "He was despised" was particularly memorable and received critical acclaim. Carolyn's performance in "Messiah" cemented her reputation as one of the leading mezzo-sopranos of her generation. Throughout her career, Carolyn has collaborated with many renowned conductors and orchestras, including Sir Simon Rattle, Sir John Eliot Gardiner, and the London Symphony Orchestra. She has also performed in many prestigious venues, such as the Royal Opera House in London, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Salzburg Festival in Austria. In addition to her work in opera, Carolyn has also performed in many concerts and recitals. She has a particular affinity for the music of Bach and has performed his cantatas and oratorios in many venues around the world. Carolyn's interpretation of Bach's music is highly regarded, and she has been praised for her ability to convey the emotional depth and complexity of his music. Over the course of her career, Carolyn has received many awards and honors. In 1982, she was awarded the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for her services to music. She has also received several honorary degrees from universities in the UK and the Netherlands. In addition to her work as a performer, Carolyn is also a respected teacher and mentor. She has taught at several music schools and universities, including the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal Conservatory of The Hague. Many of her students have gone on to have successful careers in music, and Carolyn is widely regarded as one of the most influential voice teachers of her generation. In conclusion, Carolyn Watkinson is a highly accomplished mezzo-soprano who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Her talent, hard work, and dedication have earned her many awards and honors, and her performances have been praised for their emotional depth and technical excellence. Carolyn's legacy as a performer and teacher will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.

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