Rolf Liebermann (1910-1999) was a Swiss composer, conductor and administrator, and a major figure in post-war European musical life. Born in Zurich, he studied composition and became active in both concert and operatic circles.

His works include operas, orchestral pieces, chamber music and music for unusual ensembles. He was also a highly influential opera administrator, notably in Hamburg and Paris.

Liebermann’s music is modern, sharply made and often alert to rhythm, colour and theatrical situation. It reflects a mid-century world in which classical, popular and stage idioms could meet in unexpected ways.

His administrative career sometimes overshadows his composing, but the two were connected by a keen sense of theatre. Liebermann understood music as sound, structure and public event.