Herbert von Karajan (1908–1989) was an influential Austrian conductor and one of the leading figures in 20th-century classical music. Best known for his 34-year tenure with the Berlin Philharmonic, he played a major role in shaping European orchestral performance. His career included important engagements with top ensembles such as the Vienna Philharmonic and the Berlin State Opera, and he gained acclaim at the Salzburg Festival during the 1930s and 1940s. Renowned for both his artistry and his prolific output, Karajan became a household name, selling an estimated 200 million records and leaving a lasting impact on the world of classical music.