René Leibowitz (1913–1972) was a French conductor, composer, and pianist, renowned for his contributions to 20th-century classical music. He is particularly associated with the post-World War II avant-garde movement and is recognized for his interpretations of modern composers, especially Arnold Schoenberg and Igor Stravinsky. Leibowitz's genre primarily encompasses classical music, with a strong emphasis on atonal and twelve-tone techniques. Among his notable works are orchestral pieces, chamber music, and operatic compositions. His recordings of Schoenberg's music, including the "Gurre-Lieder" and "Pierrot Lunaire," are considered significant contributions to the repertoire. As a conductor, Leibowitz was influential in promoting contemporary music, conducting premieres of works by various composers and advocating for the inclusion of modern pieces in concert programming. His pedagogical approach also left a lasting impact; he taught music theory and composition, influencing a generation of musicians. Leibowitz's dedication to modernism helped bridge the gap between earlier Romantic traditions and the innovations of the mid-20th century, solidifying his role as a pivotal figure in the evolution of contemporary classical music.