Gustav Mahler was born on July 7, 1860 in Kaliště, a Czech town under Austrian domination at that time. His musical carreer was encouraged by his family when it noticed the child’s gifts in music. He finished his studies brightly (mostly in Vienna), in 1878. He earned a living as a conductor and art director in several cities such as Pragues, Budapest or Vienna. His important load of work was not really rewarded: his artistic freedom was limited and rivalries and feuds appeared. However, his reputation grew so that he became the director of the Vienna State Opera in 1897. At the beginning of the 20th century, he got tired of critics and conflicts in the Opera and decided to go abroad. He went to the United-State to lead the Metropolitan Opera and, then, the Philharmonic of New York. As a star conductor, he was very successful, especially with the Première of his 8th symphony in 1910. Besides, with this position, he had more time to compose. Malher died in Vienna on May 18, 1911.
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