Mackerras, Sir Charles (1925-2010), was an Australian conductor and oboist. He gained recognition conducting symphonic works and opera, especially the works of such Slavonic composers as Leos Janacek.
Mackerras made his opera debut at Sadler’s Wells (now the English National Opera) in London in 1948 and was principal conductor of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Concert Orchestra from 1954 to 1956. He also conducted frequently at the Covent Garden Opera in London beginning in 1963. He was musical director of Sadler’s Wells from 1970 to 1977. From 1982 to 1985, he served as chief conductor of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. From 1987 to 1992, he served as musical director of the Welsh National Opera. He was principal guest conductor of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra from 1993 to 1996 and held the same position with the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra from 1997 to 2003. He also served as musical director of the Orchestra of St. Luke’s from 1998 to 2001. Mackerras also conducted major orchestras in Europe, Australia, and the United States. He arranged music by the English composer Sir Arthur Sullivan for the ballets Pineapple Poll (1951) and Lady and the Fool (1954).
Alan Charles MacLaurin Mackerras was born on Nov. 17, 1925, in Schenectady, New York, of Australian parents. He was educated in Sydney. He played principal oboe in the Sydney Symphony Orchestra from 1944 to 1946 before going to England. Mackerras was knighted in 1979. Sir Charles Mackerras died in London on July 14, 2010.
