Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

1944

Period

:

Contemporary

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Russ Hartenberger is a renowned percussionist and composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on August 22, 1948, in Toronto, Canada, Hartenberger grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a violinist, and his mother was a pianist, which exposed him to music at an early age. Hartenberger began his musical journey by learning the piano and violin, but he soon discovered his passion for percussion instruments. He started playing the drums in his teenage years and later joined the percussion section of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Hartenberger went on to study music at the University of Toronto, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1971. After completing his undergraduate studies, Hartenberger pursued a Master of Music degree at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York. It was during this time that he became interested in contemporary music and began exploring new sounds and techniques. Hartenberger's interest in contemporary music led him to join the percussion ensemble Nexus in 1971. Nexus was a groundbreaking ensemble that combined classical percussion instruments with non-traditional instruments from around the world. Hartenberger's work with Nexus helped to establish the ensemble as one of the most innovative and influential percussion groups of the 20th century. He remained a member of Nexus for over 35 years, during which time he performed in countless concerts and recorded numerous albums. In addition to his work with Nexus, Hartenberger has also collaborated with many other musicians and ensembles throughout his career. He has performed with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, and the Boston Symphony Orchestra, among others. Hartenberger has also worked with many notable composers, including Steve Reich, John Cage, and Philip Glass. Hartenberger's contributions to the world of classical music have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Order of Canada in 2012. This prestigious award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to Canadian society and culture. One of Hartenberger's most notable performances was his collaboration with composer Steve Reich on the piece "Drumming." The piece, which was first performed in 1971, is considered a masterpiece of contemporary music. Hartenberger's performance on the piece has been praised for its precision and energy, and it remains one of his most iconic performances to date. Hartenberger has also made significant contributions to the field of music education. He has taught at the University of Toronto, the Eastman School of Music, and the University of Rochester, among others. Hartenberger's teaching has inspired countless students to pursue careers in music, and his influence can be felt throughout the percussion community. In addition to his work as a performer and educator, Hartenberger is also a prolific composer. He has written numerous pieces for percussion ensemble, including "The Invisible Proverb," "The Shape, Sound, and Color of the Moon," and "The Book of Love." Hartenberger's compositions have been performed by ensembles around the world and have been praised for their innovative use of percussion instruments. In conclusion, Russ Hartenberger is a true icon of the classical music world.

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