Lara Downes Named 2022 Classical Woman of the Year by YourClassical’s Performance Today

ST. PAUL, Minn., March 30, 2022 – YourClassical’s Performance Today, from American Public Media, has named acclaimed pianist, producer, curator, storyteller, cultural visionary and arts advocate Lara Downes as the 2022 Classical Woman of the Year. This annual award, from Performance Today, recognizes women who have made significant contributions to the classical music art form and have inspired our listeners. 

With her wide-ranging talent, and her open spirit of musical connection and collaboration, Downes is at home on major global stages like Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Kennedy Center. She has played in intimate and non-traditional classical music venues such as clubs, galleries, universities, schools, public spaces and anywhere people gather to share the arts. 

As she says, her goal is not just to create and perform music, but to “tell stories, open hearts, and share beauty.” 

Downes’ comprehensive exploration of American music has led to a series of more than 20 acclaimed recordings, including her most recent release Reflections, Scott Joplin Reconsidered, which debuted at the top of the Billboard chart. Her recent recordings elevate the works of groundbreaking African American composer Florence Price, 19th century master Clara Schumann, and celebrate freedom songs and spirituals.  

She is the creator and curator of Rising Sun Music, a recording series focusing on music and stories of Black composers of the past two centuries. Downs is also the creator and host of AMPLIFY with Lara Downes, a series of video conversations for NPR Music. She’s Resident Artist for Classical KDFC in San Francisco and Classical KUSC in Los Angeles. She is the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, fellowships, and grants from major arts institutions around the world. 

“I’m over the moon that Lara Downes is our 2022 Classical Woman of the Year,” said Fred Child, host and senior editor of Performance Today. “She is a true artist among pianists, with a keen ear for curating fascinating concert programs. She brings her vision and passion to a vast range of activities that touch the lives and cultural conversations of music-lovers everywhere. Her steadfast commitment to broadening our understanding and appreciation for composers from all walks of life creates a world in which our art form and our communities are richer, more creative, and in the end both more human and humane. It’s with great pleasure that we recognize Lara with this well-deserved award.” 

Downes was selected by the staff of Performance Today based on listener nominations, submitted through the month of March. Praise for Downes in these nominations include: 

“A superb pianist, she promotes marginalized classical voices. Downes envisions an artistically vibrant world where classical music is egalitarian and accessible to all. Her artistry and that bold vision are why she deserves this title.” Michael, Denton TX. 

“In addition to her excellence as a musician, she has a gift for teaching.”  Carol, Eugene OR. 

“From even her earliest recordings, Lara has consistently sought music of under-represented composers to share with her audience. In recent years Lara has been in the forefront in raising awareness and appreciation of the music and music-making of Black Americans. She has been a true leader in this.” James, Spokane WA. 

“(I’m touched by) her piano artistry, her ‘at home’ concerts during the Covid shut-down, and her national and local classical music broadcasts!” Marty, San Diego CA. 

“Lara's efforts to promote, support, and encourage young Black performers and composers, as well as her dedication to performing the work of forgotten composers are important contributions to the music scene. She should be recognized for her determination, virtuosity, and verve!” Nancy, Windham VT. 

Downes will be recognized on the March 30 episode of Performance Today, including a conversation with Child about her extensive career and accomplishments. 

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YourClassical® is a collection of curated classical music listening experiences and information produced by Minnesota Public Radio and American Public Media®. YourClassical provides audiences with the music they love through terrestrial broadcasts and multiple web-based platforms. Nationally syndicated YourClassical programs include Pipedreams®, SymphonyCast®, Composers Datebook® and Performance Today®, and are in addition to the Radio, Lullaby, Relax, Peaceful Piano, and Holiday audio streams that can be found at YourClassical.org. Regional music programming produced by YourClassical MPR®, is a trusted companion for listeners across Minnesota on broadcast radio, web interfaces and live events. YourClassical MPR’s Kid’s Initiatives strives to inspire the next generation of music fans and artists through in-school learning experiences, educational content, and resources for teachers and parents. Each week, nearly 2.75 million people engage with YourClassical. Learn more and listen at yourclassical.org.