For the last 400 years, classical music continues to top the genre of fine arts music, and it is not very hard to see why? For the longest time, composers have curated a blend of innovation and tradition in the classical world, and 21st century performers and composers have embraced this legacy. Also, there is an endless effort to tailor new ways of adapting the genre to increasing diversity calls and maintaining relevance in this digital era.
Certain artists tweak up the arts with a unique presentation, contemporary sound, and new images to classical music in the past decade. As the new decade begins, here are some artists you can lookout.
- Christopher Cerrone
In the past few years, this New York-based artist has bagged an impressive amount of awards, with his opera ‘Invisible Cities,’ getting a Pulitzer nomination in 2014. Some of his other creations include ‘The Pieces That Fall to Earth’ got a Grammy nomination in a small ensemble category. Though neither bagged the award, all were highly acclaimed by critics.
Much like Arvo Part, Cerrone’s style of composition is somewhat metallic and sparse. Still, he does slip up towards a fuller and lush orchestration. The payoff will, more often than not, elicit goosebumps. If anything, there is a kind of gravitas and mystery that makes walking away almost impossible.
- The Kanneh-Masons
Anyone who bears this last name seems to have an undeniable gift with classical music, and they have been on a roll since 2016. The first Kanneh Mason to shine in the spotlight was Sheku, a teen cellist who won the year’s BBC Young Musician. Shortly afterward, he released his first album, Inspiration.
His performance at the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle set him on a roll.
Late last year, his piano playing sister Isata set her own pace with a debut album, “Romance.” Focusing on Romantic Classical Music did set her apart, since most artists focus on central classical canon.
These two siblings are from a family of musicians, so it will be no surprise if another Kanneh-Mason does break out this year. Braimah is a promising venture, and the violinist is a student at the Royal Academy of Music. Their unique touch on Romantic Classical Music is a gift the world will appreciate.
- Attacca Quartet
The stringed quad met back in 2003 at the Juilliard School. For the past two decades, they have continued to bag international awards and recognition for their work. During this time, they have released 4 albums and performed through the complete cycle of Haydn string quartets, which are 68 in total.
In January, the group shelved their first Grammy Award for the Best Chamber Music/ Small Ensemble Recording. The Grammy-winning album is “Orange,” and it is entirely devoted to the music of Caroline Shaw- a Pulitzer Prize-winning composer.
Their work is spectacular, advocating for music by living composers. Simultaneously, their works and performances of old pieces seem to be setting the bar too high. It will be no surprise if this young ensemble makes it one of today’s premier string quartets.
Now, what would be the world of Romantic Classical Music without the conductors? They are a product of the ranks that are appointed leadership responsibilities of their orchestras. They have to tailor the orchestra’s future, advocate, and act as ambassadors for their organization and music. So who does 2020 have in store?
- Elim Chan
Even though she is yet to hit 35, Chan sets a streak performance, bagging awards and accolades by conducting fellowships, competitions, and positions with renowned orchestras.
Her works advocate for female composers, and her young relentless personality advocates for the role of women in orchestral leadership roles on a global scale. She is undoubtedly a force to reckon.
- Eun Sun Kim
For starters, Sun is the first Asian and female to be in a leadership role at a prominent opera company in North America. In 2017, she made her US debut with the Houston Grand Opera. She was appointed as the first principal guest conductor in over two decades.
Two years later, she conducted the San Francisco Opera, making a debut that landed her a role as the music director.
Eun Sun Kim graduated from Stuttgart with a doctorate in music. Also, she holds high regard for prominent names in classical music from around the world. She is also fluent in six international languages, but that is not what sets her apart.
According to the General Director of the San Francisco Opera, she leads with vision, and she invites people to the creative process, encouraging them to put in their best work. With a 5-year contract effective next year, Sun Kim is to lead the San Francisco Opera up and beyond centennial celebrations in ’23.
If you are looking for a website embracing classical music, then Interlude is the perfect platform for getting all the latest updates.
