Portrait Series: Christoph Eschenbach

His mother died at children, and within five years of his life, his father was killed in World War II.  Certainly not the easiest of starts for any child, but it must've been fate for Christoph Eschenbach to end up in the care of his mother's cousin, who was a talented musician and teacher.  Unlike some maestros apparently, he also knew how to play music, which gave him fine empathy for what orchestral members have to perform.  It is lovely to hear that as he advanced in his chosen career, he took care to mentor younger musicians and to lend a passionate, guiding spirit when he conducts.