Sergiu Celibidache (1912-1996) was a Romanian conductor and composer, renowned for his profound interpretations of classical music, particularly in the genres of orchestral and symphonic works. He studied at the Bucharest Conservatory and later in Germany, where he developed his distinctive conducting style. Celibidache is best known for his long tenure as the principal conductor of the Munich Philharmonic from 1970 to 1996, where he garnered acclaim for his interpretations of composers like Mahler, Bruckner, and Debussy. His recordings with the Munich Philharmonic and other orchestras, such as the Berlin Philharmonic, remain highly regarded, particularly for their emotional depth and meticulous attention to detail. He was also a proponent of the philosophy of music, emphasizing the importance of the live performance experience over recorded music. Celibidache's innovative approach to conducting and his insistence on rehearsal discipline had a lasting influence on the field of orchestral performance. His legacy continues to inspire conductors and musicians, marking him as a significant figure in 20th-century classical music.