Franz Abt | Compositeurs

Franz Abt was born on December 22, 1819 in Eilenburg. He attended the famous Thomas School in Leipzig, followed by studies of theology and music. After graduation Abt became a conductor, moving to Bernburg, Zürich and finally to Braunschweig, where he was court music director (Hofkapellmeister) from 1852 to 1882. Concert tours lead him to France, England, Russia and the USA. Illness forced him to retire at about 60. He spent his last years in Wiesbaden, where he died on March 31, 1885. Franz Abt is regarded as one of the most important composers for vocal music of his time.