Korneel Bernolet is a Belgian conductor, harpsichordist, and organist who has made a name for himself in the world of classical music. Born on May 22, 1987, in Leuven, Belgium, Bernolet showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. He later switched to the harpsichord and organ, which became his primary instruments. Bernolet received his musical education at the Lemmensinstituut in Leuven, where he studied harpsichord and organ with Kris Verhelst and Luc Ponet, respectively. He also studied conducting with Erik Van Nevel and Bart Van Reyn. During his studies, Bernolet won several prizes and awards, including the first prize in the International Harpsichord Competition in Bruges in 2006. After completing his studies, Bernolet began his professional career as a conductor and harpsichordist. He founded his own ensemble, Apotheosis, in 2009, which specializes in Baroque music. The ensemble has performed in various venues across Europe, including the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Philharmonie de Paris, and the Palais des Beaux-Arts in Brussels. Bernolet has also worked with other ensembles, including the Collegium Vocale Gent, the Netherlands Bach Society, and the Orchestra of the Eighteenth Century. He has collaborated with renowned conductors such as Philippe Herreweghe, Ton Koopman, and Jos van Immerseel. One of Bernolet's most notable performances was his debut at the Salzburg Festival in 2015, where he conducted a production of Handel's opera "Ariodante." The production received critical acclaim, with The New York Times describing Bernolet's conducting as "lively and stylish." Bernolet has also received several awards for his work as a conductor and harpsichordist. In 2012, he won the Klara Award for Young Talent, which is awarded by the Belgian radio station Klara to promising young musicians. He was also a finalist in the International Bach Competition in Leipzig in 2014. In addition to his work as a performer, Bernolet is also a respected musicologist. He has published several articles on Baroque music and has given lectures and masterclasses at various institutions, including the Royal Conservatory of Brussels and the University of Leuven. Bernolet's repertoire as a conductor and harpsichordist is primarily focused on Baroque music, with a particular emphasis on the works of Bach and Handel. He is known for his lively and expressive interpretations, which are informed by his extensive knowledge of historical performance practices. Overall, Korneel Bernolet is a talented and versatile musician who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His performances as a conductor and harpsichordist have been praised for their energy, precision, and musicality, and his work as a musicologist has helped to deepen our understanding of Baroque music. With his passion for music and dedication to his craft, Bernolet is sure to continue making waves in the classical music world for years to come.

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