Role

:

Composer Conductor  

Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Contemporary

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Orchestral

 

 

Symphony

 

Leslie B. Dunner is a renowned conductor and music director who has made a significant impact on the classical music scene. Born on October 22, 1956, in Detroit, Michigan, Dunner grew up in a family that valued music and the arts. His father was a jazz musician, and his mother was a music teacher, which exposed him to a wide range of musical genres from an early age. Dunner began his musical journey as a violinist, studying at the Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan. He later attended the University of Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in violin performance. After graduation, he continued his studies at the Yale School of Music, where he earned a Master of Music degree in conducting. Dunner's career as a conductor began in 1980 when he was appointed as the assistant conductor of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. He quickly gained recognition for his talent and was soon appointed as the associate conductor of the orchestra. During his time with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Dunner conducted numerous concerts and made several recordings, including a critically acclaimed recording of William Grant Still's "Afro-American Symphony." In 1994, Dunner was appointed as the music director of the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra, a position he held for ten years. During his tenure, he transformed the orchestra into a world-class ensemble, earning critical acclaim for his innovative programming and dynamic performances. He also led the orchestra on several international tours, including performances in China and Europe. In addition to his work with the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra, Dunner has served as the music director of several other orchestras, including the Joffrey Ballet, the Symphony Orchestra Augusta, and the Illinois Symphony Orchestra. He has also been a guest conductor with numerous orchestras around the world, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, and the London Symphony Orchestra. Dunner's talent and dedication to the arts have earned him numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In 1996, he was awarded the prestigious Leonard Bernstein Conducting Fellowship, which allowed him to study with some of the world's leading conductors. He has also been recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts, the American Symphony Orchestra League, and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. One of Dunner's most significant achievements was his role in the creation of the Sphinx Organization, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting diversity in classical music. Dunner served as the organization's founding music director and has been a strong advocate for its mission throughout his career. Dunner's passion for music and his commitment to excellence have made him one of the most respected conductors in the classical music world. His innovative programming and dynamic performances have inspired audiences around the world, and his dedication to promoting diversity in classical music has helped to create a more inclusive and vibrant arts community.

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