Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Austria

Birth

:

ca. 1726

Death

:

April 22, 1787

Period

:

Classical

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Joseph Starzer was a prominent classical music composer who lived during the 18th century. He was born on February 2, 1726, in the town of Schönbach, which is located in the present-day Czech Republic. Starzer was born into a family of musicians, and his father, Johann Georg Starzer, was a well-known composer and violinist. From a young age, Joseph Starzer showed a keen interest in music, and he began his musical education under the tutelage of his father. He quickly showed a natural talent for the violin, and by the age of 10, he was already performing in public concerts. Starzer's father recognized his son's talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. In 1741, at the age of 15, Starzer left his hometown to study music in Vienna. He studied under the famous composer Johann Joseph Fux, who was the court composer for the Habsburgs. Fux was impressed by Starzer's talent and took him under his wing, teaching him composition, counterpoint, and harmony. After completing his studies with Fux, Starzer began his career as a composer. He quickly gained a reputation as a talented composer, and his works were performed in Vienna and other major European cities. In 1756, he was appointed as the court composer for the Archbishop of Salzburg, Hieronymus von Colloredo. During his time in Salzburg, Starzer composed a number of works, including operas, symphonies, and chamber music. One of his most famous works is his Symphony in D Major, which is known for its lively and energetic melodies. He also composed a number of operas, including La Contessina, which was performed in Salzburg in 1760. In addition to his work as a composer, Starzer was also a skilled violinist. He often performed in public concerts, and his virtuosic playing was admired by audiences and critics alike. He was also a respected music teacher, and he taught a number of students, including his own son, Franz Starzer. Despite his success as a composer, Starzer's career was not without its challenges. In 1777, he was dismissed from his position as court composer by Archbishop Colloredo. The reasons for his dismissal are not entirely clear, but it is believed that it was due to a disagreement between Starzer and the Archbishop over the direction of the music at the Salzburg court. After his dismissal, Starzer continued to compose and perform, but his career never fully recovered. He died on March 17, 1787, in Salzburg, at the age of 61. Today, Joseph Starzer is remembered as one of the most important composers of the 18th century. His works are still performed and recorded, and his Symphony in D Major remains a popular piece in the classical music repertoire. His legacy as a composer and musician continues to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers.

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