Biography
b. Kalischt [now Kalište], Bohemia, July 7, 1860
d. Vienna, May 18, 1911
Gustav Mahler’s tenure with the New York Philharmonic coincided with a major reorganization of the Orchestra’s corporate structure. Several wealthy contributors were willing to act as Guarantors of the Fund for the Permanent Orchestra of the Philharmonic Society of New York; this endowment would pay sufficient salaries to musicians and conductor for their exclusive devotion for at least 23 consecutive weeks a year. The Guarantors’ committee administered the business of the Orchestra; they more than doubled the number of concerts and engaged Gustav Mahler to lead the Philharmonic to new pinnacles of achievement. They also arranged the ensemble’s first tours outside the city. Although short, these made a huge cultural impact on audiences in cities like Springfield, MA and Providence, RI. Unlike the Boston Symphony which traveled with reduced forces, Mahler refused to compromise and the full complement of 92 players went on tour.