Period

:

Classical

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

 

Orchestral

 

Laurence Lesser is a renowned cellist and music educator who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on January 5, 1941, in Los Angeles, California, Lesser began his musical journey at a young age. His parents were both musicians, and his father was a cellist who played in the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Lesser was exposed to music from an early age and began playing the cello when he was just six years old. Lesser's talent was evident from the beginning, and he quickly became a prodigy. He studied with some of the most prominent cellists of his time, including Gregor Piatigorsky, Leonard Rose, and Bernard Greenhouse. Lesser's education was not limited to the cello, however. He also studied composition and conducting, which gave him a well-rounded musical education. In 1966, Lesser joined the faculty of the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, where he taught for over 30 years. During his tenure at the conservatory, Lesser became one of the most respected music educators in the country. He was known for his rigorous teaching style and his ability to inspire his students to reach their full potential. Lesser's career as a performer was equally impressive. He has performed as a soloist with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, and the London Symphony Orchestra. Lesser has also collaborated with some of the most prominent musicians of his time, including pianist Emanuel Ax and violinist Itzhak Perlman. One of Lesser's most significant accomplishments as a performer was his recording of the complete Bach cello suites. The recording, which was released in 1985, was widely praised and is considered one of the definitive recordings of the suites. Lesser's interpretation of the suites is known for its clarity, precision, and emotional depth. In addition to his performing and teaching careers, Lesser has also been active in the music community as an advocate for the arts. He has served on the boards of several music organizations, including the American String Teachers Association and the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. Lesser has also been a strong supporter of music education and has worked to promote the importance of music in schools. Throughout his career, Lesser has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 1986, he was awarded the Avery Fisher Prize, which is considered one of the most prestigious awards in classical music. Lesser was also awarded the Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government in 1990. In addition to these awards, Lesser has also been recognized for his contributions to music education. In 2002, he was awarded the National Music Council's American Eagle Award, which is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to American music. Lesser was also awarded the Harvard Music Association's Distinguished Service Award in 2011. Today, Lesser continues to be an active performer and educator. He is currently the president emeritus of the New England Conservatory of Music and serves on the faculty of the Juilliard School in New York City. Lesser's contributions to the world of classical music have been significant, and his legacy as a performer, educator, and advocate for the arts will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.

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