One of the greatest opera and symphony directors of all time, Arturo Toscanini was internationally known for his forcefulness and style of conducting, which led to near-perfection in his work.

Born in Parma, Italy, Toscanini began training at the Parma Conservatory when he was nine years old. There he learned to play the cello and studied musical composition. In 1885 he graduated from the Conservatory with top awards for his cello playing. Only one year later he received an invitation to play with the Italian opera in Rio de Janeiro. On the night of a performance of Aida, Toscanini was asked to fill in as conductor. After a spectacular performance which ended in standing ovations, he was asked to remain as conductor of the Italian opera until the end of the season. This twist of fate led to an outstanding career spanning several decades.

Toscanini began his conducting career in major Italian opera houses in Rome, Milan and Turin, touring with different opera companies from 1887 to 1896. He was appointed Chief Conductor of La Scala in Milan in 1898. After conducting in Buenos Aires, Toscanini came to the United States in 1908 to be the conductor of the Metropolitan Opera in New York. His first New York symphonic concert was a performance of Beethoven's "Ninth Symphony." He had a dynamic style of conducting, controlling his orchestra members more with his eyes than with his hands. His temper made musicians live up to perfection, thereby delighting audiences at every opera or concert.

Toscanini returned to his native Italy in 1915 and held the position as music director of La Scala until 1929. Also during this period he conducted the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and later became its music director. He became famous for his orchestration of Verdi and Beethoven works. The NBC Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1937 and directed by Toscanini; it was said that this orchestra was formed specifically for him. He conducted the orchestra for 17 years, broadcasting concerts from New York to radios across the country. Toscanini's style and repertoire was now alive in households.

At the age of 87 Toscanini retired, leaving a legacy of perfection behind him. He died in New York City, Jan. 16, 1957, but his legendary performances live on. In 1992 RCA Victor Gold Seal released a Toscanini collection made up of 82 CDs. His demand for orchestral perfection made him one of the greatest conductors of his time. ~ Kim Summers, All Music Guide