The New Year's Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic found its enduring structure under the leadership of Clemens Krauss, who directed the event until his death in 1954. Beyond his role as a conductor, he maintained a multifaceted career as a composer, pianist, and librettist, exerting significant influence on the interpretation of works by Richard Strauss and Richard Wagner.
Early Development and Conducting Career
Born in Vienna in 1893, Krauss trained his voice as a member of the Hofkapelle and later studied composition and theory at the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, graduating in 1912. His professional conducting career began in Brünn, followed by appointments in Riga, Nuremberg, Stettin, and Graz. By 1922, Richard Strauss invited him to join the conducting staff of the Vienna State Opera, a tenure that preceded his leadership of the institution in 1929.
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During his time as director of the Vienna State Opera, Krauss championed contemporary works, leading the 1930 Vienna premieres of Alban Berg's Wozzeck and Jaromir Weinberger's Schwanda the Bagpiper. He fostered a deep creative partnership with Richard Strauss, eventually writing the libretto for the opera Capriccio. In 1937, he moved to Germany to lead the National Theatre Munich, where he remained active until Allied bombing halted operations.
Wartime Rescue and Post-War Activity
During the 1930s, Krauss and his second wife, Viorica Ursuleac, collaborated with British sisters Ida and Louise Cook to assist Jewish individuals in fleeing Nazi-controlled territory. By using Munich Opera performances as cover for the sisters' travel, the group saved at least 29 people. Following a post-war period of investigation by Allied authorities, he resumed his career in 1947, later conducting at the Bayreuth Festival and Covent Garden before dying in Mexico City in 1954.
Fast facts
- Born: 1893, Vienna, Austria
- Died: 1954, Mexico City
- Education: University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna
- Spouse: Viorica Ursuleac
- Occupation: Conductor, composer, and librettist
- Notable Award: Ring of Honour of the City of Vienna
Questions readers ask
What was the nature of his relationship with Richard Strauss?
Krauss was a close friend and key collaborator, conducting several of his premieres and writing the libretto for Capriccio.
Did he conduct at the Bayreuth Festival?
Yes, notably directing an acclaimed Wagner Ring cycle there in 1953.
Achievements
- Genres: opera
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