 Highlights from Emil de Cou’s conducting career include his Carnegie Hall debut with the New York Pops, screenings in 2005 and 2006 of The Wizard of Oz with the movie score performed live by the National Symphony Orchestra., and a guest engagement with the New York City Ballet. Recordings of note include a performance of the ballet Othello with the San Francisco Ballet for the PBS program Great Performances and Debussy Rediscovered for Arabesque, which includes the world premiere of de Cou's reconstruction of Printemps-Suite Symphonique. A native of Los Angeles, de Cou’s early training in horn and piano led to studies in conducting and composition at the Music Academy of Vienna. He later enrolled in the graduate conducting program at the University of Southern California and in 1982, was chosen from 200 candidates to study in Leonard Bernstein's master class at the Hollywood Bowl.  Praised by critics for his passionate expression and dazzling technique, Andrew Armstrong has delighted audiences around the world with repertoire ranging from Bach to Babbit. He has performed over 35 concertos with orchestras in Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the United States. Mr. Armstrong was the featured soloist of the Naumburg Concerts at New York City's Central Park, and also performed the world premiere of Lisa Bielawa's, "The Right Weather" for piano solo and chamber orchestra with the American Composers Orchestra. Before beginning his career as a concert pianist, he received over 25 national and international First Prizes. Mr. Armstrong is devoted to outreach programs and playing for children. In addition to his many concerts, his performances are heard regularly on National Public Radio and WQXR, New York City's premier classical music station. |
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