Berlin Philharmonic examining its role under Nazis
BERLIN -- One of the world's most renowned orchestras, the Berlin Philharmonic, said Tuesday it plans an investigation into its role during the Nazi era.
"We've never really come to terms with the history of the Philharmonic Orchestra under National Socialism," general manager Pamela Rosenberg said.
A book is to be published this year by Mischa Aster with the cooperation of the 125-year-old orchestra on the period between 1933 and 1945 and above all on the complex relationship that legendary conductor [1922-45, 1952-54] Wilhelm Furtwaengler had with top Nazis...
During the Nazi years, he was able to retain his position with an often deferential attitude toward the regime, which used him as a propaganda tool, while still working to protect his Jewish musicians...
The conductor was cleared on all charges but his reputation remained tainted by his proximity to the regime.
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"We've never really come to terms with the history of the Philharmonic Orchestra under National Socialism," general manager Pamela Rosenberg said.
A book is to be published this year by Mischa Aster with the cooperation of the 125-year-old orchestra on the period between 1933 and 1945 and above all on the complex relationship that legendary conductor [1922-45, 1952-54] Wilhelm Furtwaengler had with top Nazis...
During the Nazi years, he was able to retain his position with an often deferential attitude toward the regime, which used him as a propaganda tool, while still working to protect his Jewish musicians...
The conductor was cleared on all charges but his reputation remained tainted by his proximity to the regime.