Bernard Haitink dies aged 92
Dutch conductor died at his home in London
Dutch conductor Bernard Haitink has died at his home in London aged 92.
His management company, Askonas Holt announced his death on Thursday (21st October) evening, saying ‘With great sorrow, we announce the death today of Bernard Haitink, the distinguished Dutch conductor. Mr Haitink died peacefully at home with his wife and family, aged 92 years old.’
In a career spanning over 60 years, leading some of the world's top orchestras in London, Amsterdam, Chicago and Dresden, Haitink was a major figure in the UK's classical music scene.
The Dutch royal family said in a statement that Haitink's ‘drive and musical finesse are unforgettable’
One of the most celebrated conductors of his generation. He was Chief Conductor of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra for 27 years. As well as holding Music Director positions at The Royal Opera, Covent Garden, and at Glyndebourne Festival Opera.
Bernard was Principal Conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, as well as Conductor Emeritus of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Conductor Laureate of the European Union Youth Orchestra and an honorary member of the Chamber Orchestra of Europe.
Haitink performed his last concert in September 2019 with the Wiener Philharmoniker.