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Johann Steffens was a German composer of classical music who lived from 1755 to 1813. He was born in the town of Bremen, which was then part of the Holy Roman Empire. Steffens showed an early interest in music and began studying the violin at a young age. He later studied composition with Johann Christoph Friedrich Bach, the son of Johann Sebastian Bach. Steffens began his career as a musician in the court orchestra of the Prince of Hesse-Kassel. He quickly gained a reputation as a talented composer and performer, and in 1780 he was appointed Kapellmeister (music director) of the court orchestra. In this position, Steffens was responsible for composing music for the court's various events and ceremonies, as well as conducting the orchestra. Steffens' early works were heavily influenced by the music of his teacher, Johann Christoph Friedrich Bach, as well as the works of other composers of the time, such as Haydn and Mozart. However, as he matured as a composer, Steffens developed his own unique style, characterized by a blend of classical and romantic elements. One of Steffens' most famous works is his Symphony No. 2 in D major, which was composed in 1785. This symphony is notable for its use of the horn, which was a relatively new instrument at the time. The horn is featured prominently in the second movement of the symphony, which is a slow and lyrical adagio. The symphony also features a lively and energetic finale, which showcases Steffens' skill as a composer of dance music. Another notable work by Steffens is his opera, "Die Dorfschule" (The Village School), which was composed in 1790. This opera tells the story of a young schoolteacher who falls in love with one of his students. The opera is notable for its use of folk melodies and dances, which give it a distinctly Germanic flavor. The opera was well-received by audiences and helped to establish Steffens' reputation as a composer of opera. Steffens also composed a number of chamber music works, including string quartets and sonatas for various instruments. One of his most famous chamber works is his String Quartet No. 1 in G major, which was composed in 1795. This quartet is notable for its use of counterpoint, which is a technique in which two or more melodies are played simultaneously. The quartet also features a lively and energetic finale, which showcases Steffens' skill as a composer of dance music. In addition to his work as a composer, Steffens was also a respected music educator. He taught composition and music theory at the University of Kassel, and many of his students went on to become successful composers in their own right. Steffens' career as a composer was cut short by his untimely death in 1813. However, his legacy as a composer and educator lives on. His works continue to be performed and recorded by musicians around the world, and his influence can be heard in the works of many later composers.

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