Lorenz Nasturica-Herschcowici, first violin with the Munich Philharmonic symphony orchestra for 30 years, was sacked last week following claims he was “too close to Russia.” Born in Romania, the musician’s great talent was recognised in 1992 by the Philharmonic’s principal conductor at that time, the world-renowned Sergiu Celibidache, and he was named the orchestra’s concertmaster. In particular, Nasturica-Herschcowici supremely displayed the clarity and beauty of sound so characteristic of Celibidache’s performances of works by composer Anton Bruckner.
This latest act of discrimination recalls the darkest period in German history. More than 80 years ago, not only were the careers of Jewish artists destroyed—the livelihoods of their friends or spouses were also ruined if they failed to denounce their friends and relatives. Now a Romanian with a Jewish name (Herschcowici) is being blamed for not distancing himself from a Russian conductor.
— source wsws.org | 29 Sep 2022