Ernest Ansermet, born in Vevey, Switzerland, in 1883, was a conductor of pioneering spirit whose contributions to classical music remain influential. With a foundation in mathematics and natural sciences from the University of Lausanne, Ansermet's intellectual rigor and analytical skills translated seamlessly into his musical career, leading him to become one of the twentieth century's most respected conductors. Fascinated by the emergence of new musical languages and the works of contemporary composers, he became a staunch advocate for the music of his time, forming close collaborations with composers like Igor Stravinsky, from whom he conducted the premieres of several ballets with the Ballets Russes in Paris.

Ansermet is perhaps best known for founding the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande in 1918, an ensemble he would conduct for nearly half a century, focusing on French and Russian composers, as well as music from his Swiss roots. His recordings, many of which were made with the Decca Record Company, have been praised for their clarity, balance, and precision, contributing significantly to the classical music recording industry's growth. The releases such as "Conductor's Gallery, Vol. 12: Ernest Ansermet" and "The Art of Ernest Ansermet" showcase his broad repertoire and dedication to both well-known and obscure works. Despite his passing in 1969, Ansermet's legacy endures through these enduring recordings and his influential writings on music theory and aesthetics, making him a pivotal figure in the classical music landscape of the 20th century.

Genres

Historic Orchestral Performance

Orchestral Performance

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Latest Release

Ansermet conducts Orchestre de la Suisse Romande

Orchestre de la Suisse Romande•

Claude Debussy•

Ernest Ansermet•

Igor Stravinsky•

Modest Mussorgsky•

Béla Bartók•

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky•

Robert Schumann•

Gabriel Fauré•

Maurice Ravel

Album - 94 Tracks - Released November 7, 2024