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STAGE+

Tenor

Howard Crook

Albums

The John Eliot Gardiner Collection
John Eliot Gardiner
Bach, J.S.: Cantatas & Sacred Masterpieces
John Eliot Gardiner
Lully: Acis et Galatée (2 CD's)
Les Musiciens du Louvre, Marc Minkowski
Boyce: Solomon (English Orpheus 2)
Bronwen Mills, Howard Crook, The Parley of Instruments
Bach, J.S.: St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244
Monteverdi Choir, English Baroque Soloists, John Eliot Gardiner
J.S. Bach: St. Matthew Passion – Arias & Choruses
Barbara Bonney, Ann Monoyios, Anne Sofie von Otter, Michael Chance, Howard Crook, Olaf Bär, Cornelius Hauptmann, The London Oratory Junior Choir, Monteverdi Choir, English Baroque Soloists, John Eliot Gardiner
Handel: Messiah - Arias and Choruses
Arleen Augér, Anne Sofie von Otter, Michael Chance, Howard Crook, John Tomlinson, The English Concert, The English Concert Choir, Trevor Pinnock
Handel: Messiah (2 CD's)
Arleen Augér, Anne Sofie von Otter, Michael Chance, Howard Crook, John Tomlinson, The English Concert Choir, The English Concert, Trevor Pinnock

Howard Crook: A Renowned Tenor in Early Music

Howard Crook was an American lyric tenor celebrated for his contributions to early music, particularly in the Baroque repertoire. Born on June 15, 1947, in Rutherford, New Jersey, Crook studied at Baldwin-Wallace College and the University of Illinois before pursuing a career in theatre and mime. He transitioned to professional singing after winning prizes in European vocal competitions.

Notable Works and Performances

Crook was renowned for his performances and recordings of works by composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach, Jean-Philippe Rameau, Jean-Baptiste Lully, and George Frideric Handel. Among these, a selection of his fascinating works has been unveiled on STAGE+.

Headlining the collection is 'Boyce: Solomon (English Orpheus 2)', a magnificent piece that perfectly encapsulates Crook's exceptional skill in conveying profound emotion. Collaborating with celebrated musicians Bronwen Mills and The Parley of Instruments, their harmonious interplay results in a captivating performance.

Bach's masterwork, 'St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244', under the esteemed direction of the Monteverdi Choir and English Baroque Soloists conducted by John Eliot Gardiner, pours new life into this classic composition. Howard Crook's stirring interpretation showcases his rare ability to connect with Bach’s profound spiritual vision.

Another standout performance is Handel's 'Messiah - Arias and Choruses'. A collaboration of giants, this rendition features international virtuosos Arleen Augér, Anne Sofie von Otter, Michael Chance, John Tomlinson, and Crook himself. Accompanied by The English Concert and The English Concert Choir under the baton of Trevor Pinnock, this performance is a testament to the power of concerted virtuosity.

Legacy and Teaching

Beyond his performance career, Crook was a respected teacher. He taught at the CNR conservatory in Paris and conducted masterclasses in early music. His legacy includes a wide range of recordings with leading conductors and ensembles, cementing his place as a prominent figure in the early music movement.

Sadly, Howard Crook passed away on August 27, 2024, at the age of 77. Discover these masterpieces and experience the unrivaled artistry of Howard Crook on STAGE+. Dive into the depth of emotion and unparalleled musical expression in this collection of his fascinating works. Don't miss out on these captivating performances by Howard Crook – a homage to classical music that resonates now and forever.