Taubert, Karl Gottfried Wilhelm

1811-1891

German pianist of a conservative type, whose playing was characterized by thoroughness and artistic good taste. He was born in Berlin and received his early education in composition of Bernhard Klein, and in piano-playing of Ludwig Berger. Entering the University of Berlin in 1827 he studied there until 1830, and in 1831 received his appointment as accompanist at Court concerts. In 1834 he was made member of the Academy of Arts and president of the musical section of its senate in 1875. About 1841 he was made director of music at the Royal Opera and in 1845 he was made Hofkapellmeister, a position which he held until 1869 when he retired with the title of Oberkapellmeister. He became conductor of the Royal Orchestra at the Court concerts, and by his conscientious efforts brought the performances up to a high standard. He died in Berlin in 1891. He wrote many excellent compositions full of beauty and refinement but lacking in force. Among them may be mentioned the operas, Marquis und Dieb, Die Kirmes, Der Zigeuner and Macbeth; incidental music to the Tempest, the Medea of Euripides, and Blaubart; overtures to Aus Tausend und eine Nacht, and Otello; a Vater unser and three psalms; six sonatas for piano and violin, six sonatas for piano solo, three symphonies and a festival overture for full orchestra.