Gustav Mahler (July 7, 1860 - May 18, 1911) - The internationally renowned composer and conductor, born in Bohemia.

Gustav Mahler was born in Kaliste u Humpolce in a large Jewish family that came from Podblanicka. He spent his childhood in Jihlava, where his father, a liquor merchant, ran a taproom. His exceptional talent manifested itself in early childhood, apparently even before he learned to read and write. The first teachers were his musicians from Jihlava city band, who often met in his father's tavern. Already ten years of successfully performed at the Municipal Theatre in Jihlava. After graduation, Mahler went to Vienna, where he began studying at the conservatory.

In 1880 he won first short conducting engagements with seasonal orchestra in the Austrian spa town of Bad Hall.

Subsequently, he worked in a number of European orchestras, for example, lived in Ljubljana, Olomouc, Prague, Leipzig, Hamburg, Budapest and other places. In 1897 he won the prestigious post of chief conductor and director of the Court Opera in Vienna. The position of director stayed for ten years, after which he joined the Metropolitan Opera in New York, where he worked until his death.

Basis of Mahler's nine symphonies formation presents a series of song cycles. (Symphony no. 10 in F sharp major, already finish was not enough). The work, which is characterized by monumentality and expressive emotionality, however, there was full recognition until after his death.

The world is perceived as Mahler Austrian musician, given the place of birth and the influence of the Czech environment, but can be seen as a Czech artist. He affiliation to a particular nation perceived rather complicated. "I feel like a triple exile. As a Czech among Austrians, as an Austrian among Germans, as a Jew throughout the world. Everywhere an intruder, never welcomed," he once said.

Gustav Mahler died in only fifty-one years of complications caused by a bacterial inflammation of the heart valves.