Date of Birth: January 2, 1970
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Biography
Eric Whitacre is an American composer, conductor, and speaker known for his choral, orchestral, and wind ensemble music. Born on January 2, 1970, in Reno, Nevada, Whitacre developed a passion for music in high school, initially as a synthesizer player in a techno-pop band. He later attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he studied with Dr. David Weiller and Dr. Jon Cobb. Whitacre’s “Ghost Train,” composed during his time at UNLV, gained significant attention and catapulted his career. Whitacre further honed his craft at the Juilliard School, studying under John Corigliano. His works like “Lux Aurumque,” “Sleep,” and “Water Night” have become staples in contemporary choral repertoire, garnering international acclaim. Whitacre is also known for his innovative use of technology, particularly through his Virtual Choir projects, which have united thousands of singers from around the globe. In addition to his compositions, Whitacre is a sought-after conductor and speaker, known for his engaging and inspiring presentations. His work has earned him numerous awards, including a Grammy for Best Choral Performance. As of now, Eric Whitacre continues to be an influential figure in the world of classical and choral music.
5 Interesting Facts about Eric Whitacre
1. Eric Whitacre’s first album as both composer and conductor, “Light & Gold,” won a Grammy Award for Best Choral Performance in 2012.
2. Whitacre’s Virtual Choir projects have involved singers from over 145 countries, creating a global community of musicians.
3. He served as Composer-in-Residence at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge University, from 2011 to 2016.
4. Whitacre was a self-described “band geek” in high school and only joined choir because there was a girl he wanted to meet.
5. He has composed music for a variety of ensembles, including the London Symphony Orchestra and the King’s Singers.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Eric Whitacre
1. “Music is the social act of communication among people, a gesture of friendship, the strongest there is.”
2. “I believe that virtual choirs can bring people together in a way that nothing else can.”
3. “I always tell my students that you have to write the music that you want to hear.”
4. “Music is one of the highest forms of communication. It transcends language, culture, and time.”
5. “The first time I sang in a choir, it changed my life. It was the most transformative experience I’d ever had.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Eric Whitacre’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $4 million.
Children
Eric Whitacre has one son, Esh Whitacre, with his wife, soprano Hila Plitmann.
Relevant Links
1. [Eric Whitacre’s Official Website](https://ericwhitacre.com/
2. [Eric Whitacre on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/user/EricWhitacre
3. [Eric Whitacre’s Virtual Choir](https://virtualchoir.ericwhitacre.com/
4. [Eric Whitacre’s TED Talk](https://www.ted.com/speakers/eric_whitacre
5. [Grammy Awards Profile](https://www.grammy.com/grammys/artists/eric-whitacre
