Erich Leinsdorf
Erich Leinsdorf
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Erich Leinsdorf was born Herbert Blomstedt on April 4, 1912. He is commonly known as Erich Leinsdorf.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: April 4, 1912
Died: September 11, 1994
Nationality and Profession(s)
Erich Leinsdorf was an Austrian-American conductor of classical music. Throughout his career, he led numerous orchestras across Europe and the United States.
Early Life and Background
Born in Vienna, Austria-Hungary (now Austria), Herbert Blomstedt grew up in a musical family. His father was a pianist and composer, while his mother sang opera. This exposure to music at an early age likely contributed to Leinsdorf's interest in becoming a conductor.
After completing his education, Leinsdorf began his career as a conductor in Vienna during the 1930s. However, following the rise of Nazi Germany, he emigrated to the United States in the 1940s to escape persecution due to his Jewish heritage.
Major Accomplishments
Leinsdorf's most notable accomplishment was leading the Boston Symphony Orchestra from 1959 to 1962 and the Cleveland Orchestra from 1962 to 1969. During this time, he was known for pushing artistic boundaries and taking risks in programming.
He also held positions with the Philadelphia Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra among others. Leinsdorf worked closely with prominent composers such as Arnold Schoenberg and Anton Webern, performing world premieres of their works.
Notable Works or Actions
Some notable performances by Leinsdorf include:
World Premieres: He was instrumental in introducing the music of Arnold Schoenberg and Anton Webern to American audiences through numerous world premieres.
Recording Career: Leinsdorf recorded extensively with major labels, including RCA Victor and Deutsche Grammophon. His recordings are still highly regarded today for their technical quality and artistic insight.
Impact and Legacy
Erich Leinsdorf's impact on classical music is multifaceted. He played a crucial role in introducing modernist composers to American audiences, expanding the repertoire of major orchestras, and pushing the boundaries of musical expression.
His legacy extends beyond his own performances as well. Leinsdorf mentored several notable conductors, including Michael Tilson Thomas and Marin Alsop, paving the way for future generations of musicians.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Erich Leinsdorf is widely quoted and remembered due to his unwavering commitment to artistic integrity and innovation in classical music. His courageous advocacy for modernist composers and his dedication to expanding musical repertoire have left an indelible mark on the world of classical music.
By embracing risk-taking and championing lesser-known works, Leinsdorf has inspired countless musicians and audiences alike. His impact continues to be felt through the many conductors he mentored and the recordings he made that remain a testament to his artistry.
In conclusion, Erich Leinsdorf's remarkable life and career have left an enduring legacy in classical music.
Quotes by Erich Leinsdorf
Before I left New York to go to Virginia and to enjoy the country, I filed an application with the Immigration.
I was an assistant conductor at the Metropolitan. It was my first trip to America. During that winter, Austria was swallowed up by the Nazis.
I think that the President was perfectly aware of the enormous importance which music played in the creation of a better life for people.
I was several times at the White House and once I arranged for a chamber group of the Boston Symphony to play at the White House.
The Congressman ascertained that the consulate in Havana had numbers to feed the pigs.
I was introduced to Congressman Lyndon B. Johnson. The young Congressman was very friendly.
The President would usually talk to me about matters relating to the immigration problem.
A President doesn't have a terribly long time to talk to people who are not really on the agenda.
When I was to come to Washington the first time as Music Director of the Boston Symphony, Mrs. Johnson phoned us to find out if they could give us a party and who we would like to meet.