Dutch conductor Bernard Haitink has passed away at his home in London at the age of 92.

In a career spanning 65 years, he took charge of some of the world's best orchestras in London, Amsterdam, Chicago and Dresden.

His management company announced his death late on Thursday night, saying that one of the most celebrated conductors of his generation had died peacefully at his home.

Haitink was a major figure in the UK classical music scene, winning numerous awards and making 450 recordings.

Born in 1929 in the Netherlands he began to make his name as a conductor, but he initially started his career as a violinist.

His big break came with the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic and within six years he was asked to take charge of the Concertgebouw Orchestra in Amsterdam.

Even in his final months on the podium as part of the London Symphony Orchestra his performances were well received.

His Askonas Holt management company paid tribute to him, saying: "Bernard Haitink’s legacy will be his unrivalled interpretations of the great symphonic and operatic masterpieces.

"We remember Mr Haitink not only as a legendary musician who made over 450 recordings, but also as a passionate mentor for future generations of conductors, generously offering his time to teaching and masterclasses."