Role

:

Composer Performer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

July 22, 1973 in Rhinebeck, NY

 

Rufus Wainwright is a Canadian-American singer-songwriter and composer who has made a name for himself in the world of classical music. Born on July 22, 1973, in Rhinebeck, New York, Wainwright grew up in Montreal, Canada, where he was exposed to music from an early age. His parents, Loudon Wainwright III and Kate McGarrigle, were both folk musicians, and his sister, Martha Wainwright, is also a singer-songwriter. Wainwright began playing the piano at the age of six and started composing his own music soon after. He attended the McGill University Conservatory of Music in Montreal, where he studied piano and composition. He dropped out of school after two years to pursue a career in music. Wainwright's first album, Rufus Wainwright, was released in 1998 to critical acclaim. The album showcased his unique blend of pop, rock, and classical music, and established him as a rising star in the music world. His second album, Poses, was released in 2001 and was also well-received by critics. In addition to his work as a singer-songwriter, Wainwright has also composed several works for the stage and screen. In 2009, he composed the opera Prima Donna, which premiered at the Manchester International Festival. The opera tells the story of a retired opera singer who is preparing for a comeback performance. The opera was later staged at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York City. Wainwright has also composed music for several films, including Brokeback Mountain and Moulin Rouge!. His song "Going to a Town" was featured in the film I Am Sam, and his song "Hallelujah" was used in the film Shrek. One of Wainwright's most notable works is his song cycle, All Days Are Nights: Songs for Lulu, which was released in 2010. The album is a tribute to Wainwright's mother, who passed away in 2010. The songs on the album are deeply personal and introspective, and showcase Wainwright's talent as a composer and lyricist. Wainwright has also collaborated with several other musicians throughout his career. He has worked with Elton John, Burt Bacharach, and David Byrne, among others. He has also performed with the Berlin Philharmonic and the San Francisco Symphony. In addition to his musical career, Wainwright has also been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ rights. He has been open about his own sexuality and has used his platform to raise awareness about issues affecting the LGBTQ community. Overall, Rufus Wainwright is a talented and versatile musician who has made a significant impact on the world of classical music. His unique blend of pop, rock, and classical music has earned him a devoted following, and his work as a composer has been widely praised. With his continued dedication to his craft and his commitment to social justice, Wainwright is sure to remain a force in the music world for years to come.

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