Arturo Toscanini

Arturo Toscanini was an Italian conductor, and one of the most acclaimed musicians of the century. A photographic memory, drive for perfectionism, and a remarkable sense of hearing allowed him to be an especially talented conductor. His interpretation of many famous composers leads him to great fame, and his works became known as the definitive versions. His eventual position as the head of the NBC Symphony Orchestra leads him to become very famous through records and broadcasts. Toscanini’s international recognition came when he visited the United States, already a well known conductor in Italy, to tour with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra from 1926 to 1936. Audiences flocked to his performances, and critics wrote glowing reviews of his performances, leading to worldwide recognition as a conductor. After returning to Italy, and touring other locations such as the Middle East, Toscanini returned to the United States to play with the NBC Symphony Orchestra, which was created specifically for him. The radio and television broadcasts, as well as recordings of his performances, made him into a household name for the American people. After the disbanding of the Orchestra, Toscanini lived quietly with his family in the Bronx, dying of a heart attack in 1957.