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Max Wilhelm ZachAmerican violist and conductor of German origin.
Date of Birth: 31.08.1864
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Arrival in the United States
- Orchestral and Chamber Music Career
- St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
- Untimely Demise
Early Life and Education
Born in Germany, Wilhelm Gericke was an American violist and conductor of German descent. He completed his musical studies at the Vienna Conservatory.
Arrival in the United States
In 1886, Gericke arrived in the United States at the invitation of Wilhelm Gericke. He joined the Boston Symphony Orchestra as principal violist, a position he held until 1907.
Orchestral and Chamber Music Career
Gericke played a significant role in the Boston Symphony Orchestra, serving as assistant conductor for a period. He also directed the orchestra's light music concerts from 1896 to 1902 and again from 1906 to 1907. Beyond his orchestral work, Gericke performed as an ensemble musician, collaborating with the Timothy Adamowski String Quartet from 1887 to 1897.
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
In 1907, Gericke became the conductor of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. He is credited with transforming the ensemble into a professional and renowned organization. During his tenure, Gericke premiered Carlo Giorgio Garofalo's "Romantic Symphony" in 1915.
Untimely Demise
Tragically, Gericke passed away in 1907 from a blood infection following a tooth extraction. His untimely death cut short a promising career in the American musical landscape.
