Lawrence Wiliford is a Canadian tenor known for his performances in classical music. He was born in 1974 in London, Ontario, Canada. He grew up in a musical family and started singing at a young age. His parents were both music teachers, and they encouraged him to pursue his passion for music. Wiliford attended the University of Western Ontario, where he studied voice with Darryl Edwards. He later went on to study at the University of Toronto, where he earned a Master of Music degree in vocal performance. During his time at the University of Toronto, he studied with Mary Morrison and was a member of the Opera Division. Wiliford's career as a professional musician began in 2000 when he won the CBC Radio National Competition for Young Performers. This award helped to launch his career, and he quickly became known for his performances in opera, oratorio, and recital. One of Wiliford's most notable performances was in the role of Tamino in Mozart's "The Magic Flute" with the Canadian Opera Company. He received critical acclaim for his performance, with critics praising his "sweet, clear tenor" and "impeccable phrasing." He has also performed with other major opera companies, including the Metropolitan Opera, the Houston Grand Opera, and the Glyndebourne Festival Opera. In addition to his work in opera, Wiliford is also known for his performances in oratorio. He has performed with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, and the National Arts Centre Orchestra. He has also performed with the Handel and Haydn Society, the Boston Baroque, and the Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra. Wiliford has received many awards and honors throughout his career. In 2008, he was awarded the Virginia Parker Prize by the Canada Council for the Arts. This award is given to a young Canadian musician who shows exceptional talent and promise. In 2010, he was awarded the Dora Mavor Moore Award for Outstanding Performance in an Opera for his role in "The Magic Flute." Wiliford is also a dedicated teacher and mentor. He has taught at the University of Toronto and the University of Western Ontario, and he has given masterclasses at many other institutions. He is known for his ability to inspire and encourage young musicians, and many of his students have gone on to successful careers in music. In addition to his work as a performer and teacher, Wiliford is also a passionate advocate for the arts. He has served on the board of directors for the Canadian Opera Company and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, and he has been a spokesperson for the Canadian Music Centre. Overall, Lawrence Wiliford is a talented and accomplished musician who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His performances are known for their beauty, clarity, and emotional depth, and he has inspired countless young musicians to pursue their own passions for music.

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