CLEVELAND, Ohio – The classical music world is mourning the loss of acclaimed conductor Christoph von Dohnanyi, who passed away on September 6, 2023, at the age of 95. His death marks the end of an era, particularly in Northeast Ohio, where he served as the music director of the Cleveland Orchestra for 18 influential years. Dohnanyi’s legacy is not only artistic but also deeply personal for those who knew him.
During his tenure, Dohnanyi left an indelible mark on the orchestra and its members, fostering a sense of community and excellence. Principal trumpet Michael Sachs, who joined the orchestra in 1988, described the maestro as a guiding force. “I’m feeling a lot of things right now, but most of all, gratitude,” Sachs remarked. He recalled how Dohnanyi helped him find his voice within the orchestra and granted him early tenure, which allowed him to establish roots in the community.
Dohnanyi’s artistic vision extended beyond the musicians’ individual growth. He was known for his demanding rehearsals, which required intense focus and repetition. Principal timpanist Paul Yancich noted that Dohnanyi’s expectations were high, yet his approach was infused with humor and purpose. “That superior precision is one of the fundamental reasons this orchestra is second to none,” Yancich stated, emphasizing the quality that characterized Dohnanyi’s interpretations of composers like Schumann, Brahms, and Bruckner.
The impact of Dohnanyi’s mentorship was felt across the orchestra. Principal flutist Joshua Smith, who was appointed at the young age of 20, reflected on the “formative” experience he had under Dohnanyi’s leadership. Smith remarked that opportunities in both core repertoire and modern compositions allowed him to grow significantly as an artist. “My favorite things to do with him were the unusual things, the ones that challenged all of us,” he said.
Audience members also hold cherished memories of Dohnanyi’s performances. Many recall the unique interpretations he brought to lesser-known works, which resonated deeply. One local listener expressed how Dohnanyi’s recordings of Mahler and Bruckner, alongside his adventurous projects, were pivotal in nurturing a lifelong love for classical music.
Among those who worked closely with Dohnanyi was Thomas Morris, former executive director of the Cleveland Orchestra. His tenure coincided with Dohnanyi’s, allowing him to witness the maestro’s profound influence firsthand. In a tribute following Dohnanyi’s passing, Morris articulated the conductor’s essence, stating that he “epitomized what being music director of an orchestra meant.” He highlighted Dohnanyi’s dedication to nurturing the orchestra’s artistic health and his diverse intellectual interests that enriched his music-making.
Throughout his career, Dohnanyi was recognized as a major figure in classical music, renowned for his work not only in Cleveland but also across Europe and beyond. He was the grandson of composer Ernst von Dohnanyi and the nephew of theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, which contributed to his rich artistic perspective. Morris noted that Dohnanyi’s curiosity and knowledge about literature, history, politics, and philosophy consistently informed his musical interpretations.
As the Cleveland Orchestra continues its legacy, current music director Franz Welser-Most benefits from the strong foundation Dohnanyi established. The echoes of Dohnanyi’s contributions resonate within the orchestra, reinforcing its reputation for excellence.
For many in Cleveland, Christoph von Dohnanyi was not just a conductor but a vital force and a friend. His passing leaves a void that is felt deeply by musicians and audiences alike, marking a poignant moment of reflection and gratitude for a remarkable life devoted to music.