Katherine Austin is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music. Born in New Zealand, Austin showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of five. Her parents recognized her talent and encouraged her to pursue music as a career. Austin received her early education in music at the University of Auckland, where she studied under the guidance of prominent pianist Janetta McStay. She later went on to study at the Royal College of Music in London, where she received a scholarship to study with the renowned pianist John Lill. Austin's talent and dedication to music were evident from an early age, and she quickly gained recognition for her exceptional skills as a pianist. She won several awards and competitions, including the New Zealand National Concerto Competition, the Royal Overseas League Music Competition, and the Royal College of Music's Chappell Gold Medal. Austin's career as a professional musician began in the early 1990s when she started performing in concerts and recitals across New Zealand and Europe. She quickly gained a reputation as a talented and versatile pianist, capable of playing a wide range of musical styles and genres. One of the highlights of Austin's career was her performance at the 1998 Edinburgh International Festival, where she played a solo recital to critical acclaim. She has also performed with several leading orchestras, including the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, and the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. In addition to her performances as a solo pianist, Austin is also an accomplished chamber musician. She has collaborated with several leading musicians, including violinist Tasmin Little, cellist Li-Wei Qin, and clarinetist Michael Collins. Austin's dedication to music has earned her several awards and accolades throughout her career. In 2000, she was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to music, and in 2012, she was awarded the Creative New Zealand Michael King Fellowship, which allowed her to research and write a book on the history of New Zealand piano music. Austin's commitment to music education is also noteworthy. She has served as a professor of piano at the University of Waikato in New Zealand and has given masterclasses and workshops to aspiring musicians around the world. In conclusion, Katherine Austin is a highly accomplished classical music artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music. Her exceptional talent and dedication to music have earned her numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, and her performances as a solo pianist and chamber musician have been widely acclaimed. Austin's commitment to music education has also helped to inspire and nurture the next generation of musicians.

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