2009 Maestro Lorin Maazel Receives Fritz Redlich Alumni Award

For over five decades, Maazel has been one of the world’s most esteemed and sought-after conductors. Maestro Maazel has conducted more than 150 orchestras in no fewer than 5,000 opera and concert performances. He has just completed his seventh and final season as Music Director of the New York Philharmonic. He has recently extended his music directorship of the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia through 2010-11. Maestro Maazel is also a highly regarded composer.

Alongside his prodigious performing activity, Maestro Maazel has found time to work with and nurture young artists, based on his strong belief in the value of sharing his experience with the next generation(s) of musicians. He founded a major competition for young conductors in 2000, and has since been an active mentor to many of the finalists. Through his Châteauville Foundation, in Castleton, Virginia, he has created a new festival/residency program for young artists.

Among Maestro Maazel honors, decorations, and awards are the Commander’s Cross of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, the Legion of Honor of France, the Knight Grand Cross from the Republic of Italy, and the Commander of the Lion of Finland. He also has been awarded the title of Goodwill Ambassador by the United Nations, and is the recipient of two ASCAP awards for contributions to American music.