German musicians who were born in 1923
Here are 11 famous musicians from Germany were born in 1923:
Wolfgang Sawallisch
Wolfgang Sawallisch (August 26, 1923 Munich-February 22, 2013 Grassau, Bavaria) also known as Sawallisch, Wolfgang was a German conductor.
His albums include Winterreise, Paganini: Concerto No. 1 in D / Saint-Saens, Violin Concerto / Sonata in E-flat, Symphony No. 8 / Symphony No. 9 "From the New World", , Piano Concerti nos. 21 and 22, , , Swan Lake and Orchestral Works.
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Otfried Preußler
Otfried Preußler (October 20, 1923 Liberec-February 18, 2013 Prien am Chiemsee) also known as Preußler, Otfried, Otfried Preussler or Otfrieda Preusslera was a German writer.
His discography includes: , , , , , , , , and .
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Miltiades Caridis
Miltiades Caridis (May 9, 1923 Gdańsk-March 1, 1997) was a German conductor.
Caridis was born in Gdańsk, Poland and raised in Germany. He studied at the Berlin Conservatory and later won a conducting competition in 1948, which launched his career as a conductor. Caridis served as principal conductor for the Duisburg and Essen opera houses in Germany, and conducted all over the world including in North America, South America, and Japan. He was known for his interpretations of modern composers such as Stravinsky and Schoenberg, but also for his interpretations of the classics. Caridis was highly respected in the music community and is remembered as an important figure in the history of conducting.
Caridis was widely known for his dynamic style, meticulous attention to detail, and commitment to bringing out the best in the musicians he worked with. One of his most notable achievements was his complete cycle of Beethoven's symphonies with the Duisburg Philharmonic Orchestra, which was praised for its emotional depth and technical precision. Caridis often collaborated with some of the most renowned soloists of his time, such as the pianist Martha Argerich and the violinist Yehudi Menuhin. In addition to his conducting work, Caridis taught at several music institutions, including the Hochschule für Musik in Munich and the Juilliard School in New York. He was a beloved mentor to many young conductors and musicians, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of performers around the world.
Despite his success as a conductor, Miltiades Caridis was also known for his activism and commitment to social justice causes. He was a vocal opponent of the Nazi regime during World War II and was forced to go into hiding in order to avoid being drafted into the German army. After the war, he worked to promote peace and reconciliation between Germany and Poland, and was an active participant in efforts to rebuild cultural ties between the two nations. Caridis also took a strong stance against apartheid in South Africa, refusing to perform there until the country had abolished the discriminatory policy. He was a supporter of the anti-war and civil rights movements of the 1960s and 70s, and used his platform as a famous conductor to raise awareness about these issues. Caridis' commitment to social justice was considered rare among classical musicians of his time, and he is remembered not only for his musical achievements, but for his activism and dedication to promoting a better world through music.
Caridis was also known for his extensive repertoire, which included works from a wide range of composers and styles. He was particularly interested in exploring the music of lesser-known composers and championing their works, often conducting pieces that had never been performed in public before. He was also deeply committed to contemporary music and regularly commissioned new works from emerging composers.
In addition to his conducting work, Caridis was an accomplished pianist and composer. He wrote several pieces for orchestra, chamber ensembles, and solo piano, which were performed in concert halls around the world. His compositions were heavily influenced by the music of his Greek heritage, as well as by the modernist and avant-garde movements of the 20th century.
Throughout his career, Caridis received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to music and culture. He was awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany in 1978 for his services to music, and was made an Honorary Citizen of Duisburg in recognition of his work as principal conductor of the city's opera house. In 1996, he was awarded the prestigious Goethe Prize by the City of Frankfurt for his outstanding contributions to German culture.
Miltiades Caridis passed away in Munich on March 1, 1997, at the age of 73. He is remembered as a towering figure in the world of classical music, whose passion, dedication, and commitment to social justice continue to inspire musicians and audiences alike.
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Vicco von Bülow
Vicco von Bülow (November 12, 1923 Brandenburg an der Havel-August 22, 2011 Münsing) also known as Bernhard Victor Christoph-Carl von Bulow, Vicco von Bulow, Bernhard Victor Christoph-Carl von Bülow, Vicco von Bülow 'Loriot', Loriot or Bernhard Victor Christoph Carl von Bülow was a German film director, actor, cartoonist, television director, screenwriter, author, theatre director and costume designer. His children are Bettina von Bülow and Susanne von Bülow.
His most recognized albums: Szenen aus dem Film "Ödipussi", Loriots Peter und der Wolf / Der Karneval der Tiere, Loriot erzählt Richard Wagners "Ring des Nibelungen", , , , and .
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Heinz Wallberg
Heinz Wallberg (March 16, 1923 Germany-September 27, 2004 Essen) also known as Wallberg, Heinz was a German , .
His albums include Piano Concerto no. 4 / Rondo in B-flat / "Pathétique" Sonata, Hoffmanns Erzählungen and Sinfonie Nr. 94 G-Dur / Streichquartett C-Dur.
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Agnes Bernelle
Agnes Bernelle (March 7, 1923 Berlin-February 15, 1999 County Dublin) also known as Agnes Bernauer was a German singer.
Her most well known albums: Mother The Wardrobe Is Full Of Infantrymen and Fathers Lying Dead On The Ironing Board.
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Rudolf Kehrer
Rudolf Kehrer (July 10, 1923 Tbilisi-October 29, 2013 Zürich) was a German pianist.
Born to German parents in Tbilisi, Georgia, Kehrer showed an early aptitude for the piano and began playing before he was five years old. His family later moved to Berlin, where he studied with acclaimed pianist Edwin Fischer. Kehrer made his debut as a soloist in 1940 and quickly gained a reputation for his virtuosity and technical skill.
During World War II, Kehrer was drafted into the German army and served on the Eastern Front. He was captured by the Soviet army in 1945 and spent several years in a prisoner of war camp before being released and returning to Berlin. He resumed his career as a pianist, performing internationally and recording extensively.
In addition to his work as a performer, Kehrer was also a respected teacher, serving on the faculties of the conservatories in Frankfurt and Zürich. He was known for his exacting standards and demanding approach to teaching, but was also beloved by his students for his warmth and generosity.
Kehrer was the recipient of numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Berlin Art Prize. He continued to perform and record well into his eighties, and remained an influential figure in the world of classical music until his death in 2013.
Throughout his long and distinguished career, Rudolf Kehrer established himself as one of the leading pianists and educators of his time. He was renowned for his technical proficiency and his ability to draw deep emotion and expression from the piano. Kehrer's extensive discography includes over 50 recordings, many of which feature his interpretations of works by Beethoven, Schubert, and Brahms. He was especially admired for his performances of Brahms' piano works, which were noted for their clarity, depth, and sensitivity. In addition to his solo work, Kehrer was also a sought-after chamber musician, collaborating with leading artists such as violinist Henryk Szeryng and cellist Pierre Fournier. Kehrer's legacy as a teacher is perhaps just as significant as his performing career. He trained hundreds of students, many of whom went on to become successful pianists and educators in their own right. Kehrer was deeply committed to the art of teaching and believed that a great teacher should inspire and challenge their students to reach their full potential. Even in his later years, Kehrer remained active as a performer and continued to inspire audiences and students alike with his artistry and passion for music.
Kehrer's approach to music was deeply influenced by his experiences during World War II, particularly his time as a prisoner of war. He once said, "Music was my salvation, my refuge from the horrors of war." This belief in the transformative power of music was evident in his performances, which were marked by a profound emotional intensity and a sense of spiritual depth.
In addition to his work as a performer and educator, Kehrer was also a respected scholar and editor. He published a number of scholarly articles on the history and interpretation of piano music, and edited several important collections of piano works, including the complete piano music of Brahms and the Well-Tempered Clavier of Bach.
Throughout his life, Kehrer remained deeply committed to his German heritage, but also embraced a cosmopolitan worldview. He believed that music had the power to transcend national and cultural boundaries and to unite people across linguistic and ideological divides.
Today, Rudolf Kehrer is remembered as one of the greatest pianists and teachers of the 20th century. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians, and his recordings remain beloved by classical music enthusiasts around the world.
Kehrer was known for his impeccable technique and attention to detail, which he honed through countless hours of practice and study. He was highly respected by his peers and fellow musicians, and was often called upon to collaborate with some of the most renowned conductors and orchestras of his time. Kehrer believed that every piece of music had a story to tell, and that it was the job of the performer to bring that story to life through their interpretation.
In addition to his classical repertoire, Kehrer was also deeply interested in jazz and popular music, and was known to include these genres in his performances and recordings. He believed that music was an ever-evolving art form, and that it was the job of the artist to constantly explore and experiment with new styles and techniques.
Despite his many accomplishments, Kehrer remained humble and gracious throughout his life. He was deeply committed to his family and friends, and was known for his generosity and kindness toward others. He believed that music was a gift that should be shared with as many people as possible, and he devoted himself to spreading the joy and beauty of music throughout his long and illustrious career.
Today, Rudolf Kehrer's legacy lives on through the countless musicians and students he inspired, and through his recordings and performances, which continue to captivate and move listeners around the world. He will always be remembered as a true master of the piano, and as a devoted teacher and ambassador for the art of music.
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Walter Jens
Walter Jens (March 8, 1923 Hamburg-June 9, 2013) a.k.a. Jens, Walter was a German writer.
Walter Jens was not only a writer, but also a professor of classical philology and a public intellectual. He taught at various universities in Germany, including the University of Tübingen and the University of Munich. Jens was known for his insightful commentaries on contemporary German politics and society. He received multiple awards and honors for his work, including the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. Later in his life, he became an advocate for peace and was actively involved in anti-nuclear movements.
Jens was also an accomplished author, having published numerous books and essays. He wrote extensively on topics ranging from classical literature to contemporary politics. Some of his notable works include "History of German Literature", "Poetry of the Democratic Republic of Germany", and "Kant's Theoretical Philosophy". He was also a frequent contributor to German newspapers and magazines, providing commentary on current events and cultural trends.
In addition to his academic and literary pursuits, Jens was actively involved in various cultural and civic organizations. He served as the president of the German Academy for Language and Poetry and was a member of the Berlin Academy of Arts. He was also a founding member of the Green Party in Germany.
Jens passed away in 2013 at the age of 90. His legacy as a respected intellectual and tireless advocate for social justice continues to inspire and influence many in Germany and beyond.
Jens was also recognized for his work in promoting German-Jewish understanding and reconciliation. As the son of a Nazi father, he was committed to addressing Germany's troubled past and worked to foster dialogue between German and Jewish communities. He received the Leo Baeck Medal from the Leo Baeck Institute in New York City in 1999 for his efforts in this area.
Jens was also a prominent voice in the German debate over reparation payments to victims of Nazi atrocities. He argued that it was necessary for Germany to take responsibility for its actions and make amends to those who suffered as a result.
Outside of his academic and intellectual pursuits, Jens was an avid lover of music and was known to be a talented pianist. He also enjoyed spending time with his family, including his wife and three children.
Overall, Walter Jens left behind a rich legacy as a scholar, writer, activist, and public intellectual. His commitment to social justice and his contributions to German culture and academia continue to be celebrated and remembered today.
Additionally, Walter Jens was an outspoken critic of the political climate in Germany during the 1960s, particularly the conservative values propagated by the Christian Democratic Union. He was a strong supporter of student movements and actively protested against the Vietnam War. Jens's views on politics and society often landed him in controversy, but he remained steadfast in his convictions throughout his life. He also played a key role in shaping the academic discourse on classical literature, introducing new approaches to the study of ancient Greek and Roman texts. Jens was a prolific translator of Greek and Latin works and was praised for his ability to make these often complex texts accessible to a wider audience. He was also a beloved teacher, known for his engaging lectures and passionate commitment to his students. Today, he is remembered as one of the most influential classical scholars and public intellectuals of his time, whose work continues to inspire and educate new generations.
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Bert Kaempfert
Bert Kaempfert (October 16, 1923 Barmbek-June 21, 1980 Majorca) also known as Bert Kaempfert & His Orchestra, Bert Kaempfert and His Orchestra, Bert Kämpfert, Bert Kaemphert, Bert Kampfert, Bert Kempfert & Orchester, Bert Kaemfert, Bert Kaempfert mit seinem Orchester, Bert Kaempefert, Berthold Kaempfert, Berthold Heinrich Kampfert or Kaempfert, Bert was a German bandleader and composer.
His albums include Dancing in Wonderland, A Swingin' Safari, 90 Minuten nach Mitternacht, Afrikaan Beat / With a Sound in My Heart, April in Portugal, Blue Midnight, Christmas Wonderland, Dreamin' & Swingin' Christmas Wonderland, Forever My Love and Free and Easy. Genres: Instrumental, Jazz, Big Band and Easy listening.
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Inge Keller
Inge Keller (December 15, 1923 Berlin-) also known as Keller, Inge, Ingeborg Keller or Ingeborg 'Inge' Keller is a German actor. Her child is called Barbara Schnitzler.
Keller began her acting career in 1945 in Berlin and quickly rose to prominence, performing in numerous plays and films throughout Germany. She is particularly well-known for her work with the Berliner Ensemble, where she acted in many of Bertolt Brecht's plays. Keller also worked as a director, and in 1971 became the first female director at the Berliner Ensemble. In addition to her work on stage, Keller also appeared in several films, including the popular German film "The Adventures of Werner Holt." Throughout her career, Keller received many awards and accolades for her contributions to German theater and film, including the Order of Merit of Berlin and the National Prize of East Germany. She retired from acting in 2002, but her legacy as one of Germany's greatest performers lives on.
Throughout her career, Inge Keller was known for her exceptional talent and versatility as an actor. In addition to her work in theater and film, she was also a renowned voice actor and lent her voice to several radio and television productions. Keller's commitment to her craft and her dedication to the Berliner Ensemble made her an integral part of Germany's cultural landscape. Even after her retirement, she continued to be involved in theater and was a mentor to many younger actors. Today, Keller is remembered as one of Germany's greatest actors and a pioneering figure in the world of theater.
In addition to her work in theater and film, Inge Keller was also an active member of the Socialist Unity Party of Germany (SED) and served as a member of the Volkskammer, the parliament of East Germany. She was an advocate for the arts and worked tirelessly to support the development of theater and film in East Germany. Keller also played an important role in the German reunification process, working to preserve the legacy of the Berliner Ensemble and other cultural institutions that had played a significant role in the country's history. Despite her success and accolades, Keller remained humble and dedicated to her craft, always seeking to improve as an actor and director. Her legacy continues to inspire aspiring actors and performers around the world.
Inge Keller's career spanned over 60 years, during which she performed in a wide range of roles, from Shakespearean heroines to contemporary characters. She was particularly known for her portrayals of strong female protagonists, reflecting her own views on women's rights and equality. Outside of her acting career and political involvement, Keller was also an avid traveler and enjoyed exploring different cultures and countries. She was fluent in several languages, including Russian, which she learned during her time as a student in Moscow. In 2010, a documentary film about Keller's life and career was released, titled "Inge Keller - Theatre on Demand." She passed away on February 15, 2017, at the age of 93, leaving behind a profound legacy as one of Germany's most celebrated actors and cultural icons.
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Wolfgang Neuss
Wolfgang Neuss (December 3, 1923 Wrocław-May 5, 1989 Berlin) also known as Neuss, Wolfgang or Hans Otto Wolfgang Neuss was a German actor and screenwriter.
His discography includes: .
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