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Maks Von ShillingsGerman composer, conductor, musical and public figure
Date of Birth: 19.04.1868
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Max von Schillings, German Composer and Conductor
- Music Career
- Appointments and Honors
- Conducting Roles
- Other Activities
- Later Years and Presidency
- Personal Life
- Legacy
Max von Schillings, German Composer and Conductor
Early Life and EducationMax von Schillings, born on April 19, 1868, in Düren, Germany, displayed an early talent for music. After graduating from high school in Bonn, where he received formal music training, he pursued studies in law, philosophy, literature, and art history at the University of Munich.
Music Career
Inspired by Richard Strauss, Schillings fully dedicated himself to music. His pre-World War I compositions include notable operas such as "Ingwelde" and "Der Pfeiffertag," as well as symphonic works like "Meergruss" and "Abenddämmerung."
Appointments and Honors
In 1908, Schillings served as General Music Director for the Duke of Württemberg in Stuttgart, earning the title of nobleman. From 1910 to 1920, he chaired the All-German Music Association. In 1911, he received an honorary doctorate from the University of Heidelberg.
Conducting Roles
Schillings' conducting career included leading the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra in 1919 for the premiere of Kurt Atterberg's violin concerto. From 1919 to 1925, he was the chief conductor of the Berlin State Opera.
Other Activities
Beyond conducting, Schillings was active in music education. His pupils included renowned conductors Wilhelm Furtwängler and Robert Heger. From 1926 onwards, he led the musical "Forest Festivals" in Sopot.
Later Years and Presidency
In 1932, Schillings became president of the Prussian Academy of Arts in Berlin. He held this position until his death on July 24, 1933, in Berlin.
Personal Life
Schillings married his cousin, Caroline, in 1892. However, they divorced in 1923. In the same year, he married opera singer Barbara Kemp.
Legacy
Schillings is recognized as a central figure in the Munich compositional school, alongside Strauss and Thuille. His works and influence continue to be studied and performed today.
