Birth

:

September 4, 1939 in Cleveland, OH

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Irwin Gage was a renowned American pianist and vocal accompanist who was born on January 25, 1941, in New York City. He was raised in a family of musicians, and his father was a violinist in the New York Philharmonic. Gage began playing the piano at a young age and showed exceptional talent, which led him to pursue a career in music. Gage studied at the Juilliard School in New York City, where he received his Bachelor of Music degree in 1962. He then went on to study at the Hochschule für Musik in Munich, Germany, where he studied with the renowned pianist and teacher, Wilhelm Kempff. Gage also studied with the pianist and conductor, Daniel Barenboim, and the pianist and pedagogue, Paul Badura-Skoda. Gage began his career as a solo pianist, performing in recitals and concerts throughout Europe and the United States. However, he soon discovered his passion for vocal accompaniment and became one of the most sought-after accompanists in the world. He worked with some of the most renowned singers of his time, including Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Jessye Norman, and Brigitte Fassbaender. One of Gage's most significant collaborations was with Fischer-Dieskau, with whom he worked for over 25 years. The two musicians had a close working relationship, and their performances together were highly acclaimed. They recorded numerous albums together, including Schubert's Winterreise, which is considered one of the greatest recordings of the work. Gage was also known for his work with young singers, and he was a highly respected teacher and mentor. He taught at the Hochschule für Musik in Munich and the Mozarteum in Salzburg, and he gave masterclasses throughout Europe and the United States. Many of his students went on to have successful careers in opera and concert singing. Throughout his career, Gage received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 1991, he was awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, one of the country's highest honors. He was also awarded the Hugo Wolf Medal by the International Hugo Wolf Society in 1996, and the Schubert Medal by the International Schubert Society in 2001. Gage's performances were known for their sensitivity, musicality, and technical brilliance. He had a deep understanding of the music he played and was able to bring out the best in the singers he accompanied. His recordings and performances continue to be highly regarded by music lovers and critics alike. Sadly, Gage passed away on April 12, 2018, at the age of 77. His legacy lives on through his recordings, his students, and the countless musicians he inspired throughout his career. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest vocal accompanists of his time, and a true champion of classical music.

More....