When Victor de Sabata died on December 11, 1967, at the age of seventy-five, the music world mourned the loss of an exceptional conductor. His musical abilities were recognized worldwide, yet few knew that he was also respected as a composer. Inspired by Toscanini, de Sabata gained recognition for his compositions at a young age.
Born in Trieste in April 1892, de Sabata showed early musical talent. His father, Amedeo, a distinguished musician, supported his creative development. After studying in Milan, he passed his final exams in composition, piano, and violin with distinction at the age of 18. His reputation as a composer grew rapidly, and at just 24, he received a commission for La Scala in Milan.
De Sabata achieved professional success not only as a conductor but also as a composer of musical works. He conducted, among other things, the world premiere of Ravel's 'L'enfant et les sortilèges' in Monte Carlo. His international fame took him to America, and numerous leading orchestras worldwide engaged him.
Although de Sabata was reluctant to make recordings, he conducted famous opera recordings, including the legendary 'Tosca' with Maria Callas. His declining health later forced him to give up conducting. Despite his retirement, de Sabata left behind music that was largely forgotten. His three symphonic works, however, offer a glimpse into his significant musical legacy.
For years, the compositions of important Italian composers, including de Sabata, were neglected. Regrettably, his compositional talent could not be further developed after his retirement. These three orchestral masterpieces demonstrate his untapped gift as a composer and deserve wider recognition.
His symphonic poem 'The Night of Plato', the contemplative poem 'Gethsemane', and the symphonic poem 'Juventus' offer insight into de Sabata's artistic output. Each work is characterized by profound emotionality, musical brilliance, and artistic mastery, revealing his untapped genius.