Leif Segerstam, one of Finland's most celebrated conductors, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 80. Known for his prolific career both in Finland and internationally, Segerstam conducted some of the world's most prestigious orchestras and opera houses, including the New York Metropolitan Opera and Milan's La Scala.

Segerstam studied violin, piano, and conducting at the Sibelius Academy and furthered his studies at the esteemed Juilliard School in New York. Over his career, he held key roles at the Finnish National Opera, the Stockholm Royal Opera, and the Radio Symphony Orchestra (RSO), where he served as chief conductor for ten years.

In addition to his conducting career, Segerstam was a remarkably productive composer, having written over 300 symphonies, as well as numerous concertos, chamber music, and vocal pieces. His legacy as both a conductor and composer has left a lasting impact on the classical music world.

Music Finland honors the memory and life work of Leif Segerstam and shares in the grief of his family and friends.