A virtuosic violinist and prolific composer, he wrote over 250 works, including symphonies, concertos, and chamber music, showcasing his mastery of classical music forms.
Franz Krommer, a Czech composer of classical music, is renowned for his extraordinary contributions to the world of wind ensemble music. His clarinet and double clarinet concertos, in particular, remain some of his most celebrated works, leaving an indelible mark on the 19th-century music scene.
Born Frantiek Vincenc Kram on November 27, 1759, in Kamenice, Krommer's early life was marked by a passion for music. His father, an innkeeper, and uncle, a musician, recognized his talent and nurtured it from a young age. Between 1773 and 1776, Krommer studied violin and organ with his uncle, Antonn Mattias Kram, in Týn.
Krommer's big break came in 1790 when he was appointed choirmaster at the Cathedral of Pécs, Hungary. This marked the beginning of an illustrious career that would take him to the royal courts of Austria and Hungary. In 1793, he became a Kapellmeister to Count Anton II Grassalkovich, and later, in 1795, he returned to Vienna, where he became Maestro di Cappella for Duke Ignaz Fuchs.
Krommer's compositional output was staggering, with over 300 published works, including at least 9 symphonies, 70 string quartets, and numerous pieces for wind and string ensembles. His music was characterized by its sonorous, idiomatic, and at times powerful qualities, earning him a reputation as one of the most popular composers of his time.
Krommer's influence on classical music cannot be overstated. He succeeded Leopold Koeluch as composer for the Imperial Court of Austria in 1818, a position he held until his death in 1831. His music paved the way for future generations of composers, including Beethoven, whom he knew and admired.
Krommer's personal life was marked by a series of milestones, including his move to Vienna in 1785 and his later appointment as Kapellmeister in 1818. He died on January 8, 1831, at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and delight music lovers to this day.
Born in 1756
A child prodigy and master of classical music, he composed over 600 works, including symphonies, operas, and chamber music, that continue to inspire and influence musicians today.
Born in 1770
A musical genius who expanded the possibilities of classical music, creating iconic symphonies and piano sonatas that continue to inspire and influence generations of artists.
Born in 1732
A renowned composer and pianist of the Classical period, known for his symphonies, operas, and chamber music that showcased his innovative and expressive style. He played a significant role in shaping the Classical music era.
Born in 1678
A virtuosic violinist and prolific composer, he crafted over 400 concertos, including "The Four Seasons," which remains a beloved and iconic masterpiece of classical music.
Born in 1685
A master of Baroque music, he composed over 1,000 works, including orchestral suites, cantatas, and passions, that still inspire and influence musicians today. His innovative use of counterpoint and harmony raised the bar for classical music.
Born in 1797
A renowned composer of symphonies, operas, and chamber music, particularly famous for his emotional and expressive lieder (art songs) that showcased his mastery of melody and harmony.
