Otto Klemperer was one of the most prominent and influential conductors of the 20th century, known for his authoritative interpretations of the Germanic repertoire. Born on 14 May 1885 in Breslau, Germany (now Wrocław, Poland), Klemperer studied music at the Frankfurt Conservatory and in Berlin under Hans Pfitzner and Arthur Nikisch. His career spanned several decades, during which he served as director and conductor of numerous prestigious ensembles, including the Kroll Opera in Berlin and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

As a Jewish artist, Klemperer faced significant challenges during the rise of the Nazi regime and ultimately fled to the United States in 1933, where he continued to build his legacy. He was particularly admired for his meticulous and clear-cut performing style, strongly influenced by his teacher Gustav Mahler, whose works he championed. Klemperer’s extensive discography features an emphasis on the works of Beethoven, Brahms, Wagner, and Mahler, displaying his keen sense for structural clarity and instrumental balance. His later years were marked by health issues, but he continued to conduct, remaining musically active into his eighties. Otto Klemperer passed away on 6 July 1973 in Zurich, Switzerland, but his highly regarded recordings continue to reissue and remaster, introducing new generations to his profound musical interpretations.

Genres

Classical Performance

Historic Orchestral Performance

Orchestral Performance

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Latest Release

Bach: Brandenburg Concertos & Orchestral Suites - Mozart: Nachtmusik & Gran Partita

Otto Klemperer•

Johann Sebastian Bach•

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart•

Philharmonia Orchestra

Album - 53 Tracks - Released September 16, 2024