Otto Klemperer was a German-born conductor and composer who is best known for his work as a maestro. He was a major figure in the world of classical music, conducting many of the world's leading orchestras and opera companies. He was also an influential teacher, having taught at the Hochschule für Musik in Berlin and the University of California, Los Angeles. Klemperer was a prolific composer, writing over 200 works, including symphonies, operas, and chamber music. He was awarded numerous honors during his lifetime, including the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Order of the White Rose of Finland.