Frans Brüggen

Frans Brüggen, the Dutch maestro born in Amsterdam, was a titan of early music, renowned for his virtuosity on the recorder and baroque flute, as well as his insightful conducting. Born into a family of nine children, Brüggen's musical journey began under the tutelage of Kees Otten, and by the age of 21, he was already a professor at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague. His career was marked by a rebellious spirit and a deep love for original instruments and early sources, which he championed throughout his life. Brüggen was not just a performer but also a pioneering musicologist, co-founding the Orchestra of the 18th Century and leaving an indelible mark on the early music revival. His legacy includes a remarkable collection of historic recorders and a discography that spans the works of Bach, Mozart, and Beethoven, among others. Brüggen's charismatic presence and fiery opposition to musical mannerisms made him a beloved figure in the classical music world.