Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau

Date of Birth: May 28, 1925

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: May 18, 2012

Biography

Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau was a renowned German baritone and conductor, widely recognized as one of the greatest lieder singers of the 20th century. Born in Berlin, Germany, Fischer-Dieskau’s musical journey began at an early age. He studied at the Berlin Conservatory and quickly gained acclaim for his extraordinary voice and interpretative depth. Fischer-Dieskau’s career spanned over five decades, during which he performed a vast repertoire ranging from opera to oratorio and concert works. His collaborations with legendary pianists like Gerald Moore and Sviatoslav Richter in the interpretation of Schubert, Schumann, Brahms, and other composers’ lieder were particularly acclaimed. He recorded extensively, leaving behind a rich legacy of recordings that continue to be celebrated by music enthusiasts and critics alike. Apart from his singing career, Fischer-Dieskau was also an accomplished conductor, writer, and painter. He taught at various institutions and influenced generations of singers through his masterclasses and writings on music. His contributions to the world of classical music were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Ernst von Siemens Music Prize.

5 Interesting Facts about Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau

1. Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau’s debut was interrupted by World War II, as he was drafted into the German army in 1943.

2. He made his professional opera debut as Posa in Verdi’s “Don Carlos” in 1947.

3. Fischer-Dieskau was a prolific recording artist, with over 400 recordings to his name.

4. He was also an accomplished painter and published several books on music and his life.

5. Fischer-Dieskau received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1994.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau

1. “The interpreter must give his blood to the work interpreted.”

2. “Music is a higher revelation than all wisdom and philosophy.”

3. “Singing is an extraordinary thing to do. It’s something that involves your whole soul.”

4. “Lieder singing has been my life. It is where my heart lies.”

5. “The singer has everything within him. The notes come out from his very life. They are not materials gathered from outside.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of his career, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau’s estimated net worth was around $10 million.

Children

Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau had three sons: Mathias Fischer-Dieskau, a conductor and cellist; Martin Fischer-Dieskau, a painter; and Manuel Fischer-Dieskau, an opera director.