Efrem Kurtz (1900-1995) was a Russian-born conductor, active in Europe and the United States. He worked with ballet, opera and symphonic repertory, and became known for disciplined, stylish orchestral direction.

In the Pristine catalogue he appears with Jascha Heifetz and Vladimir Horowitz in rare 1947 recordings of Mozart, Korngold and Mussorgsky.

Kurtz’s conducting was clear, alert and supportive, especially valuable when framing virtuoso soloists of such magnitude. He knew how to keep the spotlight bright without stepping into it.

His page is justified by career stature and the exceptional company he keeps here. Kurtz gives this corner of the catalogue a firm conducting hand.