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Romantic

 

 

Modern

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André Laplante is a Canadian classical pianist who has gained international recognition for his virtuosic performances and interpretations of the works of Chopin, Liszt, and Rachmaninoff. Born on September 27, 1949, in Rimouski, Quebec, Laplante began playing the piano at the age of four and showed exceptional talent from an early age. Laplante's musical education began at the Conservatoire de musique de Rimouski, where he studied with Yvonne Hubert. He later continued his studies at the Conservatoire de musique de Montréal with Yvonne Loriod, the wife of the French composer Olivier Messiaen. Laplante's talent was quickly recognized, and he won several awards and competitions, including the prestigious Prix d'Europe in 1972. In 1978, Laplante made his debut with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, performing Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2. This performance was a turning point in his career, as it brought him to the attention of audiences and critics alike. Laplante's reputation as a virtuoso pianist continued to grow, and he began to perform regularly with major orchestras around the world. One of Laplante's most notable performances was his 1985 recital at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, where he performed works by Chopin, Liszt, and Ravel. His performance was widely praised, and he was awarded the silver medal in the competition. Laplante has also been recognized for his recordings, which include works by Chopin, Liszt, and Rachmaninoff. His recording of Chopin's 24 Preludes, Op. 28, was particularly well-received and won the Juno Award for Best Classical Album in 1992. In addition to his performances and recordings, Laplante has also been active as a teacher. He has taught at the Conservatoire de musique de Montréal and the University of Ottawa, and has given masterclasses around the world. Throughout his career, Laplante has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to classical music. In 2005, he was awarded the Order of Canada, one of the country's highest honors, for his achievements as a pianist and his contributions to Canadian culture. He has also been awarded the Prix Denise-Pelletier, the highest honor for the arts in Quebec, and the Governor General's Performing Arts Award, which recognizes excellence in the performing arts in Canada. Today, Laplante continues to perform and record, and remains one of Canada's most celebrated classical pianists. His virtuosic performances and interpretations of the works of Chopin, Liszt, and Rachmaninoff have earned him a place among the great pianists of our time.

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