René Clemencic (1928–2022) was an Austrian composer, conductor, recorder virtuoso, and pioneering interpreter of early music. Renowned for his deep scholarship and vibrant performances, he founded the Clemencic Consort, which became internationally acclaimed for its historically informed renditions of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque repertoire. Clemencic’s work bridged centuries, blending authenticity with expressive vitality. His contributions as a composer and musicologist profoundly shaped the understanding and appreciation of early music, establishing him as one of the most influential figures in the revival of Europe’s musical heritage.