After an illustrious 25-season career, Franz Welser-Möst, the music director of the Cleveland Orchestra, has announced his retirement. Welser-Möst's tenure will be the longest in the ensemble's history, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that has greatly influenced the orchestra's growth and success.
The announcement comes after Welser-Möst's recent health battle. In September, the 63-year-old conductor underwent surgery to remove a cancerous tumor, leading to the cancellation of his conducting performances from late October through the end of the year. The orchestra had previously mentioned that he would receive treatment periodically between conducting engagements for the next 12 to 16 months.
Despite this health setback, Welser-Möst remained committed to his role and was due to conduct at Severance Hall starting Thursday night. Following that, he had plans to lead the orchestra on tour to New York's prestigious Carnegie Hall on January 20 and 21. It is evident that his dedication and love for his craft were undeterred by the challenges he faced.
Expressing gratitude for his remarkable journey with the Cleveland Orchestra, Welser-Möst shared his sentiments in a statement released on Thursday. He stated, 'I am immensely grateful for the extraordinary journey that I have had with the Cleveland Orchestra since I first came to Severance more than 30 years ago.' He further added, 'It is both a special and an emotional moment as I reflect on what we have accomplished together. But perhaps what matters most to me is the shared passion, the inspiring creativity, and the lasting friendships that I have had the privilege of building with our musicians, audiences, and fans around the world.'
Hailing from Austria, Welser-Möst's career has spanned across renowned orchestras and opera companies. He served as the principal conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra from 1990 to 1996 and as the chief conductor of the Zurich Opera from 1995 to 2005, subsequently becoming its general music director until 2008. Welser-Möst was also the general music director of the Vienna State Opera from 2010 to 2014.
The maestro's association with the Cleveland Orchestra began in 1993 when he first conducted them. He then assumed the role of music director for the 2002-03 season, following in the footsteps of Christoph von Dohnányi, who led the orchestra for 18 seasons. With Welser-Möst at the helm, the Cleveland Orchestra has seen remarkable growth and creative achievements, solidifying its reputation as one of the world's premier symphony orchestras.
Welser-Möst's tenure as music director will surpass that of George Szell, the legendary conductor who held the position from 1946 to 1970. This significant milestone is a testament to his dedication, vision, and ability to cultivate excellence within the ensemble.
As the Cleveland Orchestra bids farewell to its beloved music director, the organization and its patrons reflect on the profound impact Welser-Möst has had on the ensemble's artistic achievements. Through his leadership, the orchestra has continued to mesmerize audiences with breathtaking performances and maintain its status as a symbol of musical excellence.
As Welser-Möst looks toward the future, the world of classical music eagerly anticipates the remaining performances he will conduct during his time with the Cleveland Orchestra. With each note, he will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the hearts of all who have had the privilege of witnessing his exceptional talent. The legacy of Franz Welser-Möst will forever be woven into the narrative of the Cleveland Orchestra, inspiring generations to come.
