Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Austria

Birth

:

May 22, 1850 in Neulerchenfeld, Austria

Death

:

June 17, 1893 in Vienna, Austria

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Orchestral

 

Johann Schrammel was a renowned Austrian composer and musician who is best known for his contributions to the development of Viennese folk music. Born on May 22, 1852, in Vienna, Austria, Schrammel was the son of a shoemaker who also played the violin. Schrammel's father recognized his son's musical talent at an early age and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Schrammel began his musical education at the age of six, studying the violin with his father. He quickly showed a natural aptitude for the instrument and began performing in public at the age of nine. Schrammel's father also introduced him to the music of the Viennese waltz, which would later become a major influence on his own compositions. In 1866, Schrammel enrolled in the Vienna Conservatory, where he studied violin with Joseph Hellmesberger Sr. and composition with Anton Bruckner. Schrammel's time at the conservatory was cut short, however, when he was forced to leave due to financial difficulties. Despite this setback, Schrammel continued to study music on his own and began performing in various ensembles around Vienna. In 1878, Schrammel formed his own ensemble, which he called the Schrammel Quartet. The quartet consisted of two violins, a guitar, and a double bass, and was modeled after the traditional Viennese string quartet. Schrammel's quartet quickly gained popularity in Vienna, and he began composing his own music for the ensemble. Schrammel's compositions were heavily influenced by the Viennese waltz and other traditional folk music of the region. His music was characterized by its lively rhythms, catchy melodies, and intricate harmonies. Schrammel's most famous composition is the "Schrammel-Quadrille," which was first performed in 1879 and quickly became a staple of Viennese dance halls. In addition to his work with the Schrammel Quartet, Schrammel also composed music for the theater and opera. His most famous opera, "Der Rekrut," was first performed in 1896 and was a critical and commercial success. Schrammel continued to compose and perform music throughout his life, and his influence on Viennese folk music can still be heard today. He died on June 17, 1893, at the age of 41, but his legacy lives on through his music and the many musicians who have been inspired by his work.

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