Sir Thomas Beecham Video (DVD)

In this video, the life and personality of conductor Sir Thomas Beecham is examined. This conductor taught himself the art of conducting and over time became one of the best conductors in classical music. He conducted the London Symphony Orchestra twice and then inherited a sizable fortune from his family. After the fortune became his, he was able to found his own orchestra and to bring in many foreign works to the British audience for the first time. His Beecham Symphony Orchestra has imported Russian pieces as well as bringing the first English-language performances of significant works. His skills became seen by far more people across the world as technology advanced enough to allow the world to see his conducting prowess. Well known for not tolerating a mediocre approach to music, he became known for his idiosyncrasies as well as his stubborn and uncompromising vision of the pieces he conducts.

(83 minutes)