Albert Wolff (conductor)

Albert Louis Wolff (19 January 1884 – 20 February 1970) was a French conductor and composer of Dutch descent. He is primarily remembered for his interpretations of French music, particularly that of Debussy and Ravel.

Born in Paris, Wolff studied at the Paris Conservatoire, where he received training in composition, harmony, and conducting. He began his career as a conductor at the Opéra-Comique in Paris in 1906, rapidly gaining recognition for his abilities. He later served as musical director of the Opéra-Comique from 1921 to 1924.

Wolff's career broadened internationally, with significant engagements at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City (1919-1921) and at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris. He also made guest appearances with prominent orchestras throughout Europe and the United States.

As a composer, Wolff's works include operas, ballets, and orchestral pieces. While his compositions are not as widely known as his conducting, they reflect the French musical style of the period. His opera L'oiseau bleu, based on Maurice Maeterlinck's play, achieved some success.

Wolff was a notable champion of contemporary music and conducted the premieres of several important works. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to draw nuanced performances from orchestras. His recordings, particularly those of French repertoire, are still highly regarded for their authenticity and artistry.

He died in Paris in 1970.