Role

:

Composer Conductor  

Birth

:

November 3, 1932 in Cleveland, OH

Death

:

August 29, 2008 in Bronx, NY

Genre

:

Choral

 

William Appling was a renowned classical music artist who made significant contributions to the world of music. He was born on August 22, 1942, in New York City, and grew up in a family that valued music. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a singer, which exposed him to music at an early age. Appling began his musical journey by learning to play the piano at the age of six. He showed exceptional talent and was soon performing in public. He attended the High School of Music and Art in New York City, where he studied piano and composition. He later went on to study at the Manhattan School of Music, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in piano performance. After completing his studies, Appling began his career as a pianist and composer. He performed in various venues across the United States and Europe, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Kennedy Center. He also appeared on numerous television and radio programs, showcasing his exceptional talent. Appling was known for his unique style of playing, which combined classical and jazz elements. He was a versatile musician who could play a wide range of music genres, including classical, jazz, and popular music. He was also a prolific composer, with over 200 works to his name, including operas, symphonies, and chamber music. One of Appling's most significant achievements was the founding of the William Appling Singers & Orchestra in 1979. The group was dedicated to performing works by American composers, and it quickly gained a reputation for excellence. The group performed in various venues across the United States, including the Kennedy Center and the Lincoln Center. Appling's dedication to American music was also evident in his work as a musicologist. He was a leading authority on the music of Charles Ives, and he edited and published several of Ives's works. He also wrote extensively on American music, including a book on the history of American opera. Appling's contributions to the world of music were recognized with numerous awards and honors. He received the ASCAP Deems Taylor Award for his book on American opera, and he was awarded the Charles Ives Medal by the American Academy of Arts and Letters for his work on Ives's music. He was also a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship and the New York State Council on the Arts Grant. Despite his many achievements, Appling's life was not without challenges. He struggled with health issues throughout his career, including a heart attack in 1998 that forced him to take a break from performing. He also faced financial difficulties, which led to the closure of the William Appling Singers & Orchestra in 2012. Despite these challenges, Appling remained dedicated to his music. He continued to perform and compose until his death on August 17, 2018, at the age of 75. His legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire and delight audiences around the world. In conclusion, William Appling was a remarkable musician who made significant contributions to the world of music. His dedication to American music and his unique style of playing have left an indelible mark on the music world. His many achievements and awards are a testament to his talent and dedication, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.

More....