Theodore Spiering

[citation needed] With a letter of recommendation from Joachim, Spiering joined the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in 1892 and remained with that organization until 1896.

Although it was expected Spiering would be chosen as Mahler's successor, the tradition of seeking European conductors lead to the selection of Josef Stransky.

Disappointed, Spiering returned to Europe, where he guest conducted the Berlin Philharmonic and Blüthner orchestras.

With the start of World War I, Spiering returned to New York City and engaged in teaching and conducting the philharmonic.

In the summer of 1925, Spiering became ill while traveling and died in Munich before the beginning of the fall symphony season.