Bernard Haitink

Bernard Haitink, a revered Dutch conductor and violinist, left an indelible mark on the classical music world. Renowned for his modesty and professionalism, Haitink's career spanned over five decades, during which he served as principal conductor for some of the world's most prestigious orchestras. His journey began with the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra in 1961, where he remained as chief conductor for an impressive 27 years. His tenure also included notable positions with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, Glyndebourne Opera, the Royal Opera House, Staatskapelle Dresden, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Haitink's repertoire focused on classical symphonies and orchestral works, but he also made significant contributions to the opera world. His legacy includes a vast discography and numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and the 2015 Gramophone Award for lifetime achievements. Haitink's final public performance was at The Proms in London in 2019, celebrating his 90th birthday with the Vienna Philharmonic. His serene and authoritative presence on the podium made him one of the most celebrated conductors of his generation.