Walter, Bruno, << VAHL tuhr, BROO noh >> (1876-1962), was a leading orchestra and symphony conductor of the 1900’s. He was noted for the warmth and insight of his musical interpretations, especially in works by Wolfgang Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Franz Schubert. He was also noted for his support of the music of his friend Gustav Mahler. Walter was an accomplished pianist and often accompanied singers in recitals.
Walter was born on Sept. 15, 1876, in Berlin, where he received his musical education. His real name was Bruno Walter Schlesinger. At the age of 18, he became an assistant to Mahler, who was director of the Hamburg Opera. Their association continued until Mahler died in 1911.
While still a young man, Walter became one of the most celebrated conductors in central Europe. He moved to the United States in 1939. Walter often conducted the New York Philharmonic Orchestra from 1941 to 1957 and at the Metropolitan Opera from 1941 to 1959. He wrote an autobiography, Theme and Variations (1946). He died on Feb. 17, 1962.
