Monteux, << mawn TUH, >> Pierre (1875-1964), was a leading French conductor of the 1900’s. He conducted a broad repertory with great authority and finesse, using a technique notable for its restraint.
Monteux was born in Paris. He first gained attention as a conductor in 1911 with the Diaghilev Ballets Russes. He conducted several important premieres for this ballet company, particularly the first performance of Igor Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring (1913).
In 1917, Monteux went to the United States to conduct at the Metropolitan Opera. From 1919 to 1924, he conducted the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Monteux conducted in Europe from 1924 to 1936. He conducted the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra from 1936 to 1952. From 1960 until his death, Monteux served as principal conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra.
