Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Wolfgang Sawallisch
Wolfgang Sawallisch
Obituary
Guest Book
Wolfgang Sawallisch Obituary
The Munich-based Bavarian State Opera, which Sawallisch led from 1971 to 1992, said he died Friday at his home in Grassau, southern Germany.
"His enormous personality and unrivaled artistry shaped this house for decades," the opera's current head, Nikolaus Bachler, said in a statement Sunday. "His name is linked to the Munich opera like no other. His influence continues to be felt until this day and will continue to do so."
Sawallisch also conducted the Bayreuth Festival, the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, the London Philharmonic, La Scala in Milan and Tokyo's NHK Orchestra, among others.
Born in Munich in 1923, Sawallisch began his career after World War II.
In 1953, he garnered international attention by becoming the youngest conductor invited to direct the Berlin Philharmonic. By 1960, he had become principal conductor of the Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra before moving to Munich in 1971.
Taking the helm of the Philadelphia Orchestra in 1993, at age 70, he guided the ensemble through a decade of financial and artistic turmoil. He was criticized by some for his traditional approach, but others praised the purity of his performance.
"With Sawallisch the music always sounded simple, clear, uncomplicated and transparent," the Vienna Symphony Orchestra said in its obituary of the conductor who led the ensemble on its well-received first tour of the United States in 1964.
At La Scala, where he made his debut in 1957, he was the first non-Italian to be awarded the Golden Baton in 1993.
Sawallisch "leaves an enormous void in the musical life of our time," the famed Milanese opera house said in a statement marking his passing.
The Bavarian State Opera said it would dedicate Verdi's Req uiem, directed by Zubin Mehta, to Sawallisch on Monday.
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
17 Entries
Solomon Y.
March 2, 2013
I am always pleased to hear about anything orchestra related. My twin and I play the bass at our middle school. You will be remembered. John 5:25
February 28, 2013
John 5:29
February 28, 2013
His conducting touch was exciting, clear, and deeply emotional. When he directed the Philadelphia Orchestra, it was like hearing Stokowski again. His passing is our loss, and I can only remark that future generations will benefit from his recorded artistry, for he led as a painter of sound.
How you can show support
February 27, 2013
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
February 27, 2013
With deepest sympathy to the Sawallisch family during your time of grief...God is for you a refuge and strength, A help that is there to be found during difficult times...May God provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead.
February 27, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the family of Wolfgang Sawallisch. May you find peace during this time. Rm. 15:33
February 26, 2013
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
February 26, 2013
My sincere condolences. May God give you power beyond what is normal to help you to endure. 2 Corinthian 4:7
February 26, 2013
He was a great conductor - his Bruckner work was magnificent . He will be greatly missed in the music world. EFH.
February 26, 2013
may we all wait patiently for the new world where there will be no more sickness and death
G. Freeman
February 26, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
A Am
February 26, 2013
Dear family I am so sorry for your loss, may you all take comfort and hope in the holy scriptures. Romans 15:4
Mary Smith
February 26, 2013
My sincere condolences to the Sawallisch family. May the God of comfort guide you in your time of sorrow (1 Pet. 5:7).
Anna hendon
February 26, 2013
I'm sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you and your family.
February 25, 2013
I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Please find peace and comfort in Psalms 65:2.
michelle plakas-kaiser
February 25, 2013
rip
Showing 1 - 17 of 17 results
Make a Donation
in Wolfgang Sawallisch's name
How to support Wolfgang's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Wolfgang Sawallisch's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored