Role

:

Conductor Performer

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

Earl Rivers was a renowned conductor and composer of classical music. He was born on August 22, 1943, in New York City, United States. Rivers grew up in a family that was passionate about music, and he started playing the piano at a young age. His parents recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Rivers attended the Juilliard School of Music in New York City, where he studied composition and conducting. He also studied with some of the most prominent musicians of his time, including Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copland. Rivers was a gifted student, and he quickly gained recognition for his talent. After completing his studies, Rivers began his career as a conductor. He worked with several orchestras in the United States, including the New York Philharmonic and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. He also conducted several operas, including productions of Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro" and Verdi's "La Traviata." In 1972, Rivers founded the professional choir, the Gregg Smith Singers. The choir quickly gained a reputation for excellence, and they performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the United States, including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center. Rivers was the conductor and artistic director of the choir, and he composed several pieces for them. One of Rivers' most significant achievements was his work with the New York Choral Society. He was the conductor and music director of the society from 1987 to 2007. During his tenure, he led the society in several performances of major works, including Beethoven's Ninth Symphony and Handel's Messiah. He also commissioned several new works from contemporary composers, including John Corigliano and John Harbison. Rivers was also a prolific composer. He wrote several pieces for orchestra, choir, and chamber ensembles. His compositions were often inspired by his love of literature and poetry, and he set many texts to music. Some of his most famous works include "The Unnamable," "The Death of Moses," and "The Tempest." Throughout his career, Rivers received numerous awards and honors. In 1994, he was awarded the Ditson Conductor's Award, which is given to conductors who have made significant contributions to American music. He was also awarded the American Academy of Arts and Letters Music Award in 2001. Rivers was known for his dedication to music education. He taught at several universities, including the University of Michigan and the University of Cincinnati. He also conducted workshops and masterclasses for young musicians. Sadly, Rivers passed away on August 23, 2016, at the age of 73. His legacy lives on through his music and the many musicians he inspired throughout his career. He was a true master of his craft, and his contributions to classical music will be remembered for generations to come.

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