As the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) prepares to celebrate Leonard Slatkin’s 80th birthday with a series of concerts this October, it’s fitting to reflect on the profound impact the maestro has had both on the world stage and within the St. Louis community. Over the years, the Jewish Light has covered Slatkin’s journey, often highlighting not only his musical prowess but also his connection to his Jewish roots. From his early days with the SLSO to his return for emotionally resonant performances, Slatkin’s story is one to remember.
1970: Slatkin first mentioned in Jewish Light
In December 1970, Leonard Slatkin made his first appearance in the Jewish Light in an advertisement for an upcoming St. Louis Symphony Orchestra concert at Powell Hall.
At the time, Slatkin was serving as the assistant conductor, and this concert marked an early public role within the St. Louis community. Slatkin would work in St. Louis until 1974 when he left to take over as conductor of the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra summer series in Chicago.
1978: A new era begins
The headline “Leonard Slatkin Appointed Principal Conductor of the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra” appeared on page three of the July 19, 1978, issue of the St. Louis Jewish Light, marking Slatkin’s return to St. Louis. The article highlighted that Slatkin, son of renowned Jewish musicians Felix Slatkin and Eleanor Aller (founders of the Hollywood String Quartet), was deeply rooted in a Jewish family with a rich musical legacy.
The article mentioned Slatkin’s distinguished career prior to St. Louis, including conducting roles with the New York Philharmonic and Philadelphia Orchestra. His background as an American-born conductor of Jewish descent set him apart as he became the first American to lead the SLSO.
1984: Building a bridge to the community
By October 1984, six years into his tenure, Leonard Slatkin’s impact extended far beyond St. Louis. That year, he traveled to Israel to conduct, an experience that was both personally and culturally meaningful. For Slatkin, the trip was an opportunity to connect with his heritage on a deeper level. This milestone highlighted his dedication to fostering connections between Jewish communities worldwide through music.
In recognition of his contributions, the Jewish National Fund (JNF) honored Slatkin. In its Oct. 3 issue, the St. Louis Jewish Light celebrated this achievement, viewing Slatkin’s international involvement and community engagement as points of pride.
1986: Slatkin goes global
By the mid-1980s, Slatkin’s reputation had spread internationally, and in April 1986, the Jewish Light covered the release of a documentary film about Slatkin’s life and career.
The film delved into his Jewish heritage and his personal reflections on the role that identity played in his artistic life.
1992: A personal and musical triumph
In February 1992, the Jewish Light highlighted another landmark in Slatkin’s career—his performance of Bernstein’s “Kaddish” Symphony.
This deeply personal work, rooted in Jewish prayer and themes of faith and doubt, became a signature piece for Slatkin. The Kaddish, a traditional Jewish prayer for the dead, resonated deeply with both the conductor and the Jewish community. For Slatkin, conducting the piece was more than a performance; it was a reflection on his journey and the ongoing dialogue between his Jewish heritage and his career in music.
2019: Returning to ‘Kaddish’ at Powell
Decades later, Slatkin’s return to conduct Bernstein’s “Kaddish” in April 2019 was a full-circle moment.
The Jewish Light once again covered this event, noting how the themes of faith, belief, and spiritual conflict in the symphony took on new meaning as Slatkin revisited the piece in the later stages of his career. He reflected on his interpretation of a lifetime of experiences, both personal and professional, and how he wrestled with the same spiritual questions Bernstein posed in the symphony.
2024: Celebrating an iconic legacy
Now, in October 2024, the SLSO will honor Leonard Slatkin’s 80th birthday with a weekend of concerts and events celebrating his legacy. The program features works that are close to Slatkin’s heart, including a U.S. premiere by his son, Daniel Slatkin, and a composition by his wife, Cindy McTee.
The orchestra will also perform Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5, a piece that became synonymous with Slatkin’s tenure as music director. His connection to Jewish composers and themes, as well as his influence on the St. Louis musical community, will be front and center.
What: Slatkin’s Legacy: A Birthday Celebration with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
When: Friday, Oct. 25, 10:30 a.m. (Duration: 1 hour, 45 minutes, including intermission)
Where: Touhill Performing Arts Center
Ticket Information: Tickets range from $20 to $68. Purchase online at SLSO Tickets or call the box office at 314-534-1700.
