It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Herbert Blomstedt, one of the most distinguished conductors of our time. He died peacefully at home in Gothenburg, Sweden, on November 4, surrounded by his family.

Herbert Blomstedt will be remembered not only as an extraordinary musician but also as a remarkable human being, whose life was guided by his Seventh-day Adventist faith. His vast experience and exceptional personal qualities left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Throughout his distinguished career, his unwavering commitment to the composers’ intentions, his profound knowledge of the scores, his exceptional musicianship, and his discipline and humility earned him the highest respect of the musical world. Above all, his greatest motivation was always to serve the music.

He often spoke of his wish to continue conducting until his 100th birthday–and beyond. His love of music and his desire to share it with audiences never waned. Sadly, a succession of health challenges eventually made it impossible for him to fulfill this ambition, compelling him to cancel his engagements in recent months.

For us, his passing represents not only the loss of an extraordinary artist whose musicianship inspired orchestras and audiences around the world, but also the loss of someone who had been part of our lives for many decades. Over the years, our professional relationship developed into something much deeper, founded on mutual trust and growing into a lasting personal bond.

Lothar Schacke, Honorary Director of KS Gasteig and Herbert Blomstedt’s manager for almost four decades, recalls:

“The loss of Herbert Blomstedt fills me and my colleagues with deep grief. Each encounter with him was a gift. His kindness, knowledge, wisdom, and gentle humour enriched us both intellectually and emotionally. Beyond the many beautiful concerts I was fortunate enough to witness, I have fond memories of the two of us browsing through antique bookstores. The care and affection he showed for his cherished books were part of a much broader quality: the genuine respect, kindness, and consideration with which he approached everything and everyone in his life."

Through his lifelong dedication to music, Herbert Blomstedt leaves behind a legacy that will continue to resonate far beyond his lifetime.

Maestro Herbert Blomstedt was named the 37th Praemium Imperiale Laureate in the category of Music in 2026. Although he was unable to attend the Awards Ceremony held in Tokyo on October 28 due to health reasons, Stefan Forsberg, President of the Royal Swedish Academy of Music, who had been associated with Maestro Blomstedt for 30 years, attended on his behalf and received the commemorative medal and testimonial letter.

On November 21, Stefan Forsberg will visit the family to present the medal and testimonial letter. The visit will coincide with the unveiling of a portrait of Herbert Blomstedt at the National Portrait Collection at Gripsholm Castle.