Genre

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Opera

 

Lucy Wakeford is a renowned harpist in the classical music world. She was born in London, England in 1978 and grew up in a musical family. Her mother was a pianist and her father was a composer, so music was always a part of her life. Wakeford began playing the harp at the age of six and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. As a child, Wakeford studied with Daphne Boden and later with Skaila Kanga at the Royal College of Music in London. She continued her studies at the Paris Conservatoire with Isabelle Moretti and at the Juilliard School in New York with Nancy Allen. Wakeford also attended masterclasses with some of the world's leading harpists, including Susann McDonald, Catherine Michel, and Marie-Claire Jamet. Wakeford's career as a professional harpist began in the late 1990s when she joined the London Symphony Orchestra as their principal harpist. She held this position for over a decade and during this time, she performed with some of the world's leading conductors and soloists. Wakeford also played on many film soundtracks, including the Harry Potter series, The Lord of the Rings trilogy, and The Chronicles of Narnia. In addition to her work with the London Symphony Orchestra, Wakeford has also performed as a soloist and chamber musician. She has collaborated with many of the world's leading musicians, including cellist Yo-Yo Ma, violinist Maxim Vengerov, and pianist Lang Lang. Wakeford has also performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall in New York, the Royal Albert Hall in London, and the Sydney Opera House in Australia. Wakeford has won numerous awards throughout her career. In 2000, she was awarded the Royal Philharmonic Society's Julius Isserlis Scholarship, which is given to outstanding young musicians. She was also a finalist in the 2001 Young Concert Artists International Auditions in New York. In 2006, Wakeford was awarded the Queen's Medal for Music, which is given to individuals who have made a significant contribution to British music. One of Wakeford's most notable performances was at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. She was chosen to perform at the opening ceremony, which was watched by millions of people around the world. Wakeford played the harp during the segment that celebrated British literature, performing a piece by Benjamin Britten. Wakeford is also a dedicated teacher and has taught at many of the world's leading music schools, including the Royal College of Music in London and the Juilliard School in New York. She is currently a professor of harp at the Royal Academy of Music in London. In addition to her work as a performer and teacher, Wakeford is also a composer. She has written several pieces for the harp, including a concerto that was premiered by the London Symphony Orchestra in 2014. Overall, Lucy Wakeford is a highly respected and accomplished harpist in the classical music world. Her natural talent, dedication to her craft, and numerous awards and accolades have made her one of the most sought-after harpists of her generation.

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