Here‘s a column I wrote when Kurt Sanderling laid down his baton in 2002, after 70 years in the podium.
May he rest in peace.
My tribute to Kurt Sanderling on his retirement
September 18, 2011 by
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Dear Maestro Sanderling,
Outstanding, even amongst the greatest conductors, you left your mark on all those who had the chance of playing under your baton. I was fortunate to be one of them, as a young solo clarinetist of the European Union Youth orchestra, and you were one of the first to ignite the sparks of my own desire to become a conductor. I loved the way you embraced the orchestra, transmitting with such ease and clarity, the strength of your feelings. The exceptional priority which you dedicated to musical discourse and especially to its poetry, was the hallmark of your approach to music. You were a great artist, discrete, respectful and humble.
Thank you and bravo !
Antoine Marguier