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Walter Damrosch
1862–1950
A major force in American classical music, this conductor and composer helped bring symphonic music to wider audiences through landmark premieres, radio, and decades of work in New York. Born in Prussia and raised in the United States, he became one of the best-known musical figures of his era.
1 Audiobook
My Musical Life
by Walter Damrosch
About the author
Born in Breslau, Prussia, in 1862, Walter Damrosch moved to the United States with his family in 1871. He followed his father, conductor Leopold Damrosch, into music and went on to build a long career as a conductor, composer, and musical educator.
He is especially remembered for leading the New York Symphony Orchestra and for championing new music. Over the years he conducted important first performances of works by major composers, including George Gershwin and Aaron Copland, and he also played a role in the early history of Carnegie Hall.
Damrosch was one of the musicians who helped make classical music a broader public experience in America. Along with his concert work, he became known for music appreciation broadcasts on radio, extending his influence far beyond the concert hall. He died in 1950.