Charles Mackerras

Charles Mackerras was known for his broad repertoire, expertise in Czech music, and use of period performance practices with modern orchestras. Born an American, he was taken to Australia as an infant by his family. He studied oboe, piano, and composition at New South Wales Conservatorium, Sydney. He joined the Sydney Symphony Orchestra as an oboist in 1945, and in that year also conducted the orchestra for the first time. Mackerras traveled to Europe in 1947 and became a member of the Sadler's Wells opera company orchestra. While in England, he won a British Council Scholars...