Jean-Georges Kastner

Full biography Jean-Georges Kastner

Jean-Georges Kastner was a French composer and musicologist who was born on March 9, 1810, in Strasbourg and died on December 19, 1867, in Paris. He was a prominent figure in the field of music during the 19th century and was known for his contributions to the saxophone's early repertoire.

Kastner was a close friend of Adolphe Sax , the inventor of the saxophone, and was among the first composers to write for and promote the instrument. He also incorporated the bass saxophone in his biblical grand opera , The Last King of Judah, which was an innovative move at the time.

Aside from being a composer, Kastner was also a musicologist and authored several books on the subject, including one on the history of music. He was also known for his musical arrangements and transcriptions of popular works.

Kastner's contributions to music and the saxophone in particular were recognized by his contemporaries, including composer Hector Berlioz, who mentioned Kastner and his wife in his writings. Kastner's legacy continues to be celebrated today through his compositions and writings that have been passed down through the years.