Role

:

Conductor  

Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Keyboard

 

Elaine Comparone is a renowned harpsichordist and conductor who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born in New York City in 1941, Comparone began her musical journey at a young age. She started playing the piano when she was just four years old and later switched to the harpsichord, which became her primary instrument. Comparone received her formal education in music at the Mannes College of Music in New York City, where she studied under the tutelage of harpsichordist and conductor Gustav Leonhardt. She also studied with other notable musicians such as Kenneth Cooper and Ralph Kirkpatrick. Comparone's talent and dedication to her craft quickly became evident, and she began to receive recognition for her work. In 1970, she won the prestigious Erwin Bodky Award for Early Music, which is given to outstanding performers of early music. This award helped to launch her career and establish her as a leading figure in the world of classical music. Throughout her career, Comparone has performed in some of the most prestigious venues in the world, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Kennedy Center. She has also performed in Europe, Asia, and South America, and has collaborated with many renowned musicians and conductors. One of the highlights of Comparone's career was her performance at the 1985 Bach Festival in Leipzig, Germany. This festival is dedicated to the music of Johann Sebastian Bach, and Comparone was invited to perform on the harpsichord. Her performance was widely praised, and she received a standing ovation from the audience. Comparone has also been recognized for her work as a conductor. In 1993, she founded the New York Baroque Dance Company, which is dedicated to the performance of Baroque music and dance. The company has performed in many venues throughout the United States and has received critical acclaim for its innovative and engaging performances. In addition to her work as a performer and conductor, Comparone is also a respected teacher and lecturer. She has taught at many institutions, including the Juilliard School, the Mannes College of Music, and the Longy School of Music. She has also given lectures and masterclasses at universities and music schools throughout the world. Comparone's contributions to the world of classical music have not gone unnoticed. In addition to the Erwin Bodky Award, she has received many other honors and awards throughout her career. In 2001, she was awarded the prestigious Handel Medallion by the City of New York, which is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the cultural life of the city. She has also been awarded the Prix d'Excellence by the French government and the Distinguished Alumni Award from the Mannes College of Music. Despite her many accomplishments, Comparone remains dedicated to her craft and continues to perform, conduct, and teach. She is widely regarded as one of the leading harpsichordists of her generation and has inspired countless musicians and music lovers throughout the world.

More....