Australian Conductor Charles Mackerras Died in 2010

He was known for his love for Czech music – especially Janacek — which stemmed from a period of study in Prague

Australian conductor Sir Charles Mackerras died on this day in 2010, aged 84, from cancer.

Mackerras was born in New York and grew up in Sydney, Australia. He initially attended his father's alma mater, the Sydney Grammar School, and St Aloysius College. At both schools, he displayed his musical talent in composing, conducting, and through various roles in the school's Gilbert and Sullivan operas.

Unconvinced that music was a viable profession, his parents sent the young Mackerras from temptation to board at The King's School. The school's focus on sport and discipline led the young artist to run away several times, which led to his expulsion.

At age 16, Mackerras began his studies at the NSW State Conservatorium of Music in oboe, piano, and composition.

An authority on the operas of Janáček, Mozart, and Gilbert and Sullivan, Mackerras served in principal conducting positions with the English National Opera, Welsh National Opera, San Francisco Opera, Philharmonia Orchestra, BBC Concert Orchestra, Czech Philharmonic, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

He was known as a perfectionist and for his rhythmically energetic, true-to-the-score interpretations for a wide range of repertoire.

JANÁČEK | "TARAS BULBA 'RHAPSODY" FOR ORCHESTRA | SIR CHARLES MACKERRAS & CZECH PHILHARMONIC