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Ensemble

 

The Salzedo Harp Duo is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique sound and virtuosic performances for over three decades. The duo consists of two harpists, Alice Giles and Louise Johnson, who have both established themselves as leading figures in the world of classical music. The Salzedo Harp Duo was founded in 1985 by Alice Giles and her former teacher, the legendary harpist and composer Carlos Salzedo. Salzedo was a pioneer in the world of harp music, and his innovative techniques and compositions have had a profound impact on the instrument and its repertoire. Giles, who had studied with Salzedo at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, was eager to continue his legacy and explore the possibilities of the harp as a solo and ensemble instrument. After Salzedo's death in 1961, Giles began to collaborate with other harpists, including Louise Johnson, who was also a former student of Salzedo's. Johnson had established herself as one of Australia's leading harpists, and had performed with many of the country's top orchestras and ensembles. The two harpists quickly discovered a shared passion for exploring the possibilities of the harp as a duo instrument, and the Salzedo Harp Duo was born. Since its founding, the Salzedo Harp Duo has become one of the most acclaimed and respected ensembles in the world of classical music. The duo has performed extensively throughout Australia, Europe, Asia, and the United States, and has collaborated with many of the world's leading orchestras and chamber ensembles. One of the highlights of the Salzedo Harp Duo's career was their performance at the 1992 World Harp Congress in Paris. The duo's performance was hailed as a triumph, and they were praised for their virtuosic playing and innovative programming. The duo has also performed at many other major music festivals, including the Edinburgh International Festival, the Salzburg Festival, and the Sydney Festival. In addition to their performances, the Salzedo Harp Duo has also recorded extensively, with over a dozen albums to their name. Their recordings have received critical acclaim and have won numerous awards, including the prestigious Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Award for Best Classical Album. One of the duo's most acclaimed recordings is their album "Harp Fusion," which features a mix of classical and contemporary works arranged for two harps. The album showcases the duo's virtuosic playing and their ability to create a rich and varied sound with just two instruments. Another highlight of the Salzedo Harp Duo's career was their collaboration with the Australian Chamber Orchestra on the album "Brandenburg Harp." The album features works by Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi arranged for harp and chamber orchestra, and was praised for its innovative and exciting approach to these classic works. Throughout their career, the Salzedo Harp Duo has been recognized for their contributions to the world of classical music. In addition to their ARIA Award, the duo has received numerous other awards and honors, including the Order of Australia Medal, the Australian Music Centre's Award for Services to Australian Music, and the Harp Society of New South Wales' Lifetime Achievement Award. Despite their many accomplishments, the Salzedo Harp Duo remains committed to exploring new possibilities for the harp as a solo and ensemble instrument.

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