Lynn Harrell biography
Date of birth : 1944-01-30
Date of death : 2020-04-27
Birthplace : New York City,U.S.
Nationality : American
Category : Arts and Entertainment
Last modified : 2024-01-30
Credited as : cellist, technical mastery, classical music, 1720 Montagnana cello , 1673 Stradivarius cello
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Lynn Harrell: Master Cellist, Teacher, and Musical Pioneer
Lynn Harrell was one of the leading cellists of his generation and is especially popular in the United States and Great Britain. He is known for his broad and big-toned performance style and technical mastery, as well as his geniality and delight in music making.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born into a musical family, his father, Mack Harrell, a baritone with the Metropolitan Opera, and his mother, Marjorie Fulton, a violinist, fostered an environment rich in artistic expression. While Harrell initially tried the piano at age eight, he discovered his true passion for the cello after attending an informal chamber music concert at home.
Challenges and Dedication
Moving from New York City to Dallas, Harrell faced challenges in his dedication to the cello. Sacrificing popularity for his craft, he immersed himself in music, finding solace and expression in the instrument. The death of his father in 1960 and the tragic loss of his mother in 1963 further deepened his emotional connection with the cello.
Training and Early Career
Harrell's journey in mastering the cello included studying under prominent teachers such as Lev Aranson, Leonard Rose, and Orlando Cole. At the young age of eighteen, he emerged as a finalist in the Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow and joined the Cleveland Orchestra, becoming its youngest member. This period served as an apprenticeship, providing invaluable insights into crafting performances.
In 1971, Harrell embarked on a solo career, and a joint recital with James Levine in 1972 catapulted him to international acclaim. Since then, he has collaborated with prestigious orchestras and soloists worldwide, showcasing his exceptional talent.
Instruments and Discography
Harrell's artistry is amplified by his choice of instruments—a 1720 Montagnana cello and a 1673 Stradivarius cello, both crafted by world-renowned makers. His extensive discography, spanning over two dozen albums on labels like RCA, EMI/Angel, Deutsche Gramophone, and CBS, attests to his commitment to musical excellence. In 1981, he earned a Grammy for the Tchaikovsky Trio in A Minor, op. 50, recorded with Itzhak Perlman and Vladimir Ashkenazy.
Personal Life and Teaching Legacy
Beyond the stage, Harrell's life took a personal turn when he met his future wife, Linda Blandford, during concerts in London with Ashkenazy. They married in 1976, raising twins, Katharine and Eben, in Beverly Hills. Harrell's dedication to teaching manifested in appointments at esteemed institutions, including the Juilliard School and the University of Southern California.
Diverse Pursuits and Reflections
Despite a demanding schedule, Harrell diversified his interests, expressing aspirations in conducting, writing a book, and creating a videotape on cello technique. Balancing musical pursuits with a focus on the quality of life, he emphasized the richness derived from family, students, and friends. As Lynn Harrell navigated the complexities of his multifaceted career, his legacy extended beyond the notes he played, leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music.
Awards and Accolades
Lynn Harrell's contributions to the world of classical music have been recognized with prestigious awards and honors:
Piatigorsky Award: A testament to his outstanding achievements in the realm of classical music.
Ford Foundation Concert Artists' Award: Acknowledgment of his excellence as a concert artist, showcasing his impact on the musical landscape.
The Inaugural Avery Fisher Prize (jointly with Murray Perahia): An esteemed recognition of his musical prowess, shared with another luminary in the field.
Grammy Awards for Best Chamber Music Performance:
Vladimir Ashkenazy, Lynn Harrell & Itzhak Perlman for Beethoven: The Complete Piano Trios (1988)
Vladimir Ashkenazy, Lynn Harrell & Itzhak Perlman for Tchaikovsky: Piano Trio in A minor (1982)
These accolades not only celebrate Lynn Harrell's technical mastery and musical brilliance but also highlight his enduring impact on the world of classical music.
