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Sir Simon Rattle's Illustrious Career and Legacy Honored with Public Unveiling of Bronze Sculpture
June 8, 2023

In recognition of Sir Simon Rattle's illustrious career as a renowned conductor, a bronze sculpture of him will be publicly revealed later this month. The unveiling ceremony is scheduled for June 15, just a few hours before Sir Simon's final performance as the music director of the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO).

The sculpture, crafted by Frances Segelman, also known as Lady Petchey, has been generously donated to the charitable organization Help Musicians.

Throughout his immensely successful journey, Sir Simon has been a strong advocate for emerging talent and has emphasized the significance of music education. With over 100 recordings to his credit, he has demonstrated his skill in conducting various composers, ranging from Mahler to Maxwell Davies, while also championing contemporary music.

Sir Simon has held esteemed international positions, including assistant conductor of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and principal conductor and artistic director of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra for a remarkable 18 years.

In 2017, he assumed the role of Music Director for the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO), the resident orchestra of the Barbican. However, in 2021, it was announced that he would be concluding his tenure as the LSO's music director in 2023. He will then become Conductor Emeritus in subsequent seasons and has also been appointed as the chief conductor of the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Bavarian Radio Chorus.

The sculptor, Frances Segelman, expressed her delight in creating a bust of Sir Simon Rattle for Help Musicians, stating, "Sir Simon Rattle is an extraordinary musical maestro, and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to sculpt his likeness in support of Help Musicians. It is a great honor that the City of London Corporation has chosen to prominently display my sculpture in the Barbican Music Library, which will help raise awareness of the invaluable work carried out by the Help Musicians charity in providing aid to musicians throughout their careers."

Munsur Ali, Chairman of the City Corporation's Culture, Heritage, and Libraries Committee, commended Sir Simon's notable presence on the conductor's podium, his passion, exuberance, and precision in leading orchestras worldwide, making him one of the most beloved conductors. The sculpture, created by Frances Segelman as a loving tribute, will be prominently showcased in the Barbican Music Library, allowing music enthusiasts to appreciate it for many years to come.

2024 © Opera World
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