Goossens conducted the premiere of Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring in 1921 in the presence of the composer, and later conducted ballet for Diaghilev.
Cultural Impact
During his time in Australia, Goossens was the first to designate Bennelong Point as the site for the famous Sydney Opera House.
Composer Biography
Sir Eugene Goossens (1893-1962) came from a prominent musical family, with his grandfather, father, and four siblings also being distinguished musicians.
Composer Biography
Goossens's siblings included Leon, a famous oboe player, and harpists Marie and Sidonie, who played in major London orchestras for over 50 years.
Composer Biography
Goossens accepted an invitation from George Eastman, founder of Kodak, to lead the Rochester Philharmonic in 1923, and later conducted the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.
Performer Biography
Gusztáv Fenyő, the pianist on this album, is a descendant of the great Hungarian violinist Joseph Joachim and won the Australian Broadcasting Commission's concerto competition.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Goossens's early musical style was shaped by influences from Debussy, Richard Strauss, and Stravinsky, whose works he heard performed in London.
