Josef Starzer

Full biography Josef Starzer

Josef Starzer was an Austrian composer who lived during the 18th century and was known for his outstanding contributions to music during his time. He was born in 1726 and died in 1787.

Starzer was a prolific composer who wrote a significant number of works, including operas, ballets, and chamber music. He was considered to be a prominent figure in the Viennese Pre-Classical movement, along with Georg Christoph Wagenseil and Georg Matthias Monn. This was a group of composers who helped to shape the music of the late 18th century and early 19th century.

One of Starzer's most significant contributions to music was his composition of the music for the ballet "Don Quixote", which was first performed in Vienna in 1768. The ballet was choreographed by Jean-Georges Noverre, and Starzer's music was considered to be an integral part of its success.

Aside from "Don Quixote", Starzer is also known for his chamber music works. He wrote a number of string quartets, quintets, and sonatas during his career, and his music was well-regarded for its technical excellence and expressive qualities.

Overall, Josef Starzer was an important figure in the Viennese Pre-Classical movement, who contributed significantly to the development of music during the 18th century. His legacy continues to live on through his compositions, which are still performed and celebrated today.