Franz Krommer, a Czech composer active in Vienna, became the last official director of chamber music and court composer to the Habsburg emperors, succeeding his compatriot Leopold Kozeluch.
Composer Biography
Franz Krommer, born František Vincenc Kramář, was the son of an innkeeper who later became Mayor of Kamenice in Moravia.
Cultural Impact
Franz Krommer's reputation was widespread, with his published compositions reprinted and arranged by publishers across Europe and even in America.
Composition History
Paul Wranitzky's 'Grand Characteristic Symphony for the Peace with the French Republic' was proscribed in Vienna due to its provocative title, which referenced the French Revolution.
Composer Biography
Ignaz Josef Pleyel, a pupil of Joseph Haydn, was praised by Mozart, who suggested Pleyel might one day replace Haydn.
Composer Biography
Carl Philipp Stamitz's father, Johann Wenzel Anton Stamitz, was a key figure in bringing the Mannheim orchestra to a peak of perfection, described as 'an army of generals'.
Cultural Impact
Around 1800, Ignaz Josef Pleyel was considered 'undeniably' the most popular composer in all Western Europe, with his works issued in some 2000 editions.
