Introduction
Walter Herbert, born Walter Seligmann on February 18, 1898, in Frankfurt, Germany, was a prominent American conductor and impresario who made significant contributions to the world of opera and classical music. His career spanned several decades and included notable engagements in both Europe and the United States. In addition to his musical achievements, Herbert was also an accomplished bridge player, earning recognition as a world champion in the game. His life and career reflect the dynamic interplay between music and culture during the 20th century.
Operatic Career
Herbert’s musical education began under the tutelage of Arnold Schoenberg in Vienna, where he honed his skills in composition. He gained valuable experience conducting various ensembles in Germany and Switzerland before making his operatic debut at the Stadttheater Bern in 1925 with a production of Georges Bizet’s “Carmen.” His talents quickly garnered attention, leading to his appointment as chief conductor at the Vienna Volksoper from 1931 to 1938.
Migration to the United States
In the late 1930s, as political tensions escalated in Europe leading up to World War II, Herbert took a significant step by traveling to Japan. His mission was to introduce modern Western classical music to Japanese audiences. This endeavor marked a pivotal moment in his career as he sought to expand the reach of operatic art beyond traditional borders. Shortly after this trip, Herbert migrated to the United States, where he became a naturalized citizen in 1944.
Leadership Roles in American Opera
Upon settling in America, Herbert continued to make impactful contributions to the operatic scene. From 1940 to 1943, he served as the director of Opera in English based in San Francisco, where he focused on making opera more accessible to English-speaking audiences. In 1943, he took on the role of general director for the New Orleans Opera Association, a position he held until 1954. During this time, he was instrumental in fostering talent within the company.
Founding Houston Grand Opera and Other Ventures
In 1955, Herbert founded the Houston Grand Opera, where he served as both general director and conductor until 1972. His vision for this opera company allowed it to flourish and become an integral part of Houston’s cultural landscape. Additionally, Herbert’s influence extended to Jackson, Mississippi, where he became the music director of Opera/South, founded by Sister M. Elise Sisson.
The San Diego Opera was another significant chapter in Herbert’s career; he founded this organization in 1965 and remained its general director and conductor until his passing in 1975. Throughout his career, Herbert worked with many renowned singers of his time and played a crucial role in their early careers. One notable moment occurred in April 1948 when a young Mario Lanza made one of his rare operatic appearances as Lieutenant Pinkerton in Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly,” under Herbert’s direction.
Bridge Player
In addition to his musical accomplishments, Walter Herbert was also an avid bridge player. In the 1930s, he was part of the Austrian national bridge team led by Paul Stern. The team achieved remarkable success by winning four of the first six European team championships during this period. Herbert participated in these championships in both 1933 and 1937, contributing to Austria’s prominence in international bridge competitions.
The Herbert Negative
Herbert is credited with developing a bridge convention known as the “Herbert Negative.” This strategic approach emphasizes that a negative response can be communicated through making the cheapest possible suit response when faced with various bidding scenarios. The convention reflects Herbert’s analytical thinking and deep understanding of game strategy.
Discography
Walter Herbert’s contributions to opera are preserved through several live recordings that showcase his work with notable singers and orchestras. Some key recordings include:
- Verdi: Un ballo in maschera (S.Morris, Schuh, Larrimore, Björling, Rothmüller, Treigle; 1950) [live] VAI
- Verdi: Rigoletto (Güden, Conley, Warren, Wilderman, Treigle; 1952) [live] VAI
- Verdi: La forza del destino (Milanov, Turner, del Monaco, Warren, Treigle; 1953) [live] VAI
- Ponchielli: La Gioconda: excerpts (Milanov, Turner, Madeira, Turrini, Bardelli, Moscona; 1953) [live] VAI
Legacy and Impact
The legacy of Walter Herbert is reflected not only through his numerous contributions to opera but also through his influence on generations of musicians and artists who followed him. His commitment to expanding the boundaries of classical music paved the way for future endeavors aimed at making opera more inclusive and engaging for diverse audiences.
Herbert’s unique journey from Europe to America symbolizes a broader narrative of cultural exchange that characterized much of the early-to-mid-20th century. Through his leadership roles and innovative approaches within various organizations like Houston Grand Opera and San Diego Opera, he left an indelible mark on American opera.
Conclusion
Walter Herbert passed away on September 14, 1975; however, his impact continues to resonate within the fields of opera and classical music today. As both a conductor and impresario who championed new talent while preserving traditional works, he played a crucial role in shaping American opera during a transformative period. Furthermore, his achievements as a bridge player highlight his multifaceted talents and strategic thinking beyond music. Walter Herbert remains a celebrated figure whose contributions have enriched both the performing arts and competitive bridge.
Artykuł sporządzony na podstawie: Wikipedia (EN).