Laszlo Halasz
Encyclopedia
Laszlo Halasz was an American opera director, conductor
, and pianist
of Hungarian birth. In 1943 he was appointed the first director of the New York City Opera
; a position he held through 1951. He later served on music faculties of the Peabody Conservatory of Music and the Eastman School of Music
as part of their conducting and opera departments. He was married to the cellist Suzette Forgues Halasz
for more than 50 years.
Conducting
Conducting is the art of directing a musical performance by way of visible gestures. The primary duties of the conductor are to unify performers, set the tempo, execute clear preparations and beats, and to listen critically and shape the sound of the ensemble...
, and pianist
Pianist
A pianist is a musician who plays the piano. A professional pianist can perform solo pieces, play with an ensemble or orchestra, or accompany one or more singers, solo instrumentalists, or other performers.-Choice of genres:...
of Hungarian birth. In 1943 he was appointed the first director of the New York City Opera
New York City Opera
The New York City Opera is an American opera company located in New York City.The company, called "the people's opera" by New York Mayor Fiorello La Guardia, was founded in 1943 with the aim of making opera financially accessible to a wide audience, producing an innovative choice of repertory, and...
; a position he held through 1951. He later served on music faculties of the Peabody Conservatory of Music and the Eastman School of Music
Eastman School of Music
The Eastman School of Music is a music conservatory located in Rochester, New York. The Eastman School is a professional school within the University of Rochester...
as part of their conducting and opera departments. He was married to the cellist Suzette Forgues Halasz
Suzette Forgues Halasz
Suzette Forgues Halasz was a Canadian cellist and music educator. She held the post of principal cellist of the Montreal Symphony Orchestra from 1942–1946 and worked in the same capacity at the New York City Opera for many years...
for more than 50 years.