He is justly famous for meticulously following the intentions of the composer as expressed in the score. Some might quibble that his approach is pedantic, boring, or uninspired. He has a reputation as a stern taskmaster (“Old School”) and his uncompromising perspective might be off-putting to some. I find these qualities intrinsic to his greatness.

Let’s review; earlier in his career he worked with some great singers of the twentieth century including Caballé, Freni, Domingo, and Cappuccilli. During his nineteen-year tenure at La Scala, he presided over legendary productions, all while battling some of the predilections of the loggionisti. Muti doggedly revived lesser known operas and composers and championed the Cherubini revival. He appeared frequently at Salzburg, and demonstrated a mastery of the German repertoire, especially Mozart and Wagner.

In time, he became the greatest living interpreter of Verdi. As music director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, his annual concert performances of Verdi operas, often with lesser known singers, were critically acclaimed and highlights of their respective seasons. He is passing on his extraordinary knowledge and expertise to the next generations via his Italian Opera Academy. Bravo Maestro!

Enjoy this sample of a great conductor’s artistry.