Founder, in 1958, and conductor of the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, Marriner has also held posts with the Los Angeles Chamber, Minnesota and Stuttgart Radio orchestras. With the ASMF, he has probably made more recordings than any other conductor.

A tribute by pianist Lise de la Salle:

I grew up with Sir Neville’s recordings: his music has been with me since my childhood. Also, when I discovered the film Amadeus, at the age of 10, it was almost like a drug! I watched it every night over and over; and the music obviously played a leading role. It was only later that I learnt that the soundtrack was recorded by Sir Neville. I remember the day my agent told me I was going to tour with him – what joy! I was obviously nervous before the first rehearsal. We did not talk, he just smiled at me and started the opening tutti of the D minor Concerto, No 20, by Mozart. Everything just disappeared: only the music mattered. Sir Neville is one of those rare conductors who convey – with both force and simplicity – all the grandeur of the music. Recently we played Mozart’s Piano Concerto No 23 together; working with Sir Neville is a great joy, everything seems so natural. He combines tradition, spontaneity, freedom and fidelity to the text in a unique way. 

Recommended recording

Rossini Il barbiere di Siviglia

Sols; ASMF / Neville Marriner 

(Decca)

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