Leonhardt, Gustav
Leonhardt, Gustav,
1928–2012, Dutch harpsicordist, organist, and conductor, studied Schola Cantorum, Basel, Switzerland (1947–50). Leonhardt researched Baroque performing styles and was a key figure in the revival of 17th- and 18th-century music played on original instruments. His great specialty was the music of Johann Sebastian BachBach, Johann Sebastian, 1685–1750, German composer and organist, b. Eisenach; one of the greatest and most influential composers of the Western world. He brought polyphonic baroque music to its culmination, creating masterful and vigorous works in almost every musical
..... Click the link for more information. , and in 1950, in Vienna, he debuted playing Bach's Art of the Fugue on the harpsichord. He made numerous recordings, many with small ensembles, notably his own Leonhardt Consort (founded 1955), and a number with countertenor Alfred DellerDeller, Alfred,
1912–79, English countertenor. He began his career as a chorister in his parish church. From 1940–47 he was a lay clerk at Canterbury Cathedral, and in 1947 he was appointed to the choir of St. Paul's Cathedral in London.
..... Click the link for more information. . He also performed in concerts, as a soloist or with small groups, throughout Europe and the United States, and was an influential teacher.