1981
West Berlin DDR
In 1981 JM World Orchestra brought together outstanding young musicians under the guidance of world-class conductors for a full concert programme followed by an international tour. Sessions: West Berlin (West Germany) with over 100 musicians from 26 countries.
Performances: West Berlin, Berliner Philharmonie. Artistic direction: C. Halfter, W. Weller. Y. Menuhin takes part in one of the concerts.
Conductor
Cristóbal Halffter (1930–2021) was a prominent Spanish composer and conductor associated with the postwar generation of Spanish avant-garde music. A central figure in contemporary composition in Spain, he combined modern techniques with historical and philosophical themes in his works. Alongside his composing career, Halffter conducted performances of contemporary repertoire and played an important role in promoting new music internationally.
Walter Weller (1939–2015) was an Austrian conductor and violinist who first gained international recognition as concertmaster of the Vienna Philharmonic. He later built a successful conducting career, serving as music director of orchestras such as the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, where he was admired for his interpretations of the central European symphonic repertoire.
Soloist
Yehudi Menuhin (1916–1999) was one of the most celebrated violinists of the 20th century, a child prodigy who rose to global fame for his deeply expressive playing. He performed widely and collaborated with major artists, and later expanded into conducting. Menuhin was also known for his humanitarian work and founded the Yehudi Menuhin School to nurture young musical talent.
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