Reinbert de Leeuw

Dutch Pianist and Contemporary Music Conductor

Reinbert de Leeuw was a Dutch pianist, conductor, and composer, renowned for his interpretations of modern and contemporary classical music. Born on September 8, 1938, in Amsterdam, he became a pivotal figure in the Dutch music scene and gained international acclaim for his work. De Leeuw co-founded the Schönberg Ensemble (later renamed Asko|Schönberg) in 1974, which specialized in performing 20th-century music. He was particularly noted for his performances of works by composers such as Erik Satie, Olivier Messiaen, György Ligeti, and Louis Andriessen. De Leeuw's dedication to promoting new music extended to teaching at the Royal Conservatory of The Hague, where he influenced many young musicians. His recording career included a wide range of albums that showcased his versatility as both a conductor and pianist. Reinbert de Leeuw passed away on February 14, 2020, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most important advocates for modern classical music.