Eric Whitacre is a renowned conductor, broadcaster, and public speaker who has made a significant impact in the classical music world. His journey began with a life-changing performance of Mozart's Requiem, which inspired him to compose his first piece, Go, Lovely Rose, at the age of 21.
Whitacre went on to study at the Juilliard School in New York, earning his Master of Music degree under the guidance of Pulitzer Prize and Oscar-winning composer John Corigliano. His first album as both composer and conductor, Light & Gold, won a Grammy in 2012 and debuted at number one on the US and UK classical charts.
Whitacre's innovative Virtual Choir series has gained international recognition, with Lux Aurumque receiving over three million views on YouTube and Virtual Choir 4: Fly to Paradise receiving over 8,400 submissions from 101 countries. He has also written for numerous ensembles and orchestras, including The Tallis Scholars, BBC Proms, and the London Symphony Orchestra.
As a composer, Whitacre has received numerous awards and nominations, including the ASCAP Harold Arlen award and the Richard Rodgers Award. He has also collaborated with legendary film composer Hans Zimmer and has worked with artists such as Annie Lennox and the London African Gospel Choir.
Whitacre has addressed audiences worldwide, including the United Nations, TED, and the World Economic Forum. He is currently Composer in Residence at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge University, and has received numerous honors and awards for his contributions to music.
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