Franz Xaver Hammer

Full biography Franz Xaver Hammer

Franz Xaver Hammer was a German composer and musician born in Bavaria in 1817. He was a prolific composer of religious music, especially for the Catholic Church. He studied music in Munich, where he became a member of the Royal Bavarian Orchestra, and later in Paris, where he studied with famous composer and pianist Franz Liszt.

Hammer's contribution to the religious music genre was significant, and his works were performed in several European countries, including Germany, France, and Italy. He wrote masses, cantatas, hymns, and smaller choral works that were often performed during Catholic Church services. His music was noted for its elegant and religiously inspired melodies, which were particularly well-suited to the liturgical music of the Catholic Church.

Hammer's most famous works were his two Requiems, which were written for the funerals of important people in Bavaria. The first Requiem was written in 1852 to commemorate the death of King Maximilian II of Bavaria, while the second was composed in 1882 for the burial of Prince Regent Luitpold.

Hammer was a devout Catholic and believed that his music should serve a religious purpose, which is evident in his compositions. His music was well-liked during his lifetime and is still appreciated by many music enthusiasts today. Some of his notable works include "Tantum Ergo," "Panis Angelicus," and "Ave Maria."

Despite his significant contribution to religious music, Franz Xaver Hammer will always be remembered primarily for his deep passion for his faith and for his devotion to creating beautiful music that reflected his beliefs.