Genre

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Chamber

 

Robert Smissen is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music. He was born on 22nd September 1961 in London, England. Smissen grew up in a family of musicians, and his parents were both professional musicians. His father was a cellist, and his mother was a pianist. Smissen's parents recognized his musical talent at an early age and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Smissen began his musical education at the age of six when he started playing the violin. However, he soon switched to the viola, which became his primary instrument. He attended the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied under the tutelage of renowned violist Frederick Riddle. Smissen graduated from the Royal College of Music with honors in 1982. After completing his studies, Smissen began his professional career as a violist. He joined the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) in 1983 as a member of the viola section. Smissen quickly established himself as a talented musician and became a regular soloist with the LSO. He also performed with other orchestras, including the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields and the English Chamber Orchestra. Smissen's talent as a violist was recognized by his peers, and he was awarded the prestigious position of principal viola of the LSO in 1995. He held this position for over 20 years and was widely regarded as one of the best violists in the world. Smissen's performances with the LSO were highly acclaimed, and he received numerous awards and accolades for his work. One of Smissen's most significant achievements was his performance of Benjamin Britten's "Lachrymae" with the LSO in 1996. The performance was recorded and released on CD, and it received critical acclaim. Smissen's interpretation of the piece was praised for its sensitivity and emotional depth. Smissen was also a dedicated chamber musician and performed regularly with various ensembles. He was a founding member of the Nash Ensemble, a London-based chamber group that has been active since 1964. Smissen performed with the Nash Ensemble for over 30 years and recorded numerous albums with the group. In addition to his work as a performer, Smissen was also a respected teacher and mentor. He taught at the Royal College of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. Many of his students went on to have successful careers as musicians. Smissen's career was not without its challenges. In 2016, he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, which forced him to take a break from performing. However, he continued to teach and mentor young musicians during his treatment. Smissen returned to performing in 2018 and continued to play with the LSO until his retirement in 2020. Throughout his career, Smissen received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of music. In 2001, he was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his services to music. He was also awarded the Royal Philharmonic Society's Instrumentalist Award in 2011. In conclusion, Robert Smissen was a highly respected and talented classical music artist who made a significant contribution to the world of music. His performances as a violist with the LSO and other orchestras were highly acclaimed, and he was widely regarded as one of the best violists in the world. Smissen's dedication to teaching and mentoring young musicians was also an important part of his legacy.

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