Carl Maria von Weber

Date of Birth: November 18, 1786

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: June 5, 1826

Biography

Carl Maria Friedrich Ernst von Weber was a prominent German composer, conductor, pianist, and critic, born on November 18, 1786, in Eutin, Bishopric of Lübeck, which is now part of Germany. He is best known for his operas, particularly “Der Freischütz,” which is considered a cornerstone of the German Romantic opera tradition. Weber’s father, Franz Anton von Weber, was a musician and an ambitious impresario, which greatly influenced Carl’s early exposure to music. Weber studied music under several prominent teachers, including Michael Haydn and Abbé Vogler. His musical career began with composing and conducting operas across various German cities. He held several significant positions, including being the director of the Prague Opera and later the Dresden Opera. His compositions extended beyond operas to orchestral, chamber, and piano music. Weber’s influence extended to his contemporaries and future generations, with composers like Richard Wagner citing him as an inspiration. Despite his relatively short life, Weber’s work had a lasting impact, laying the groundwork for future developments in Romantic music. Weber died on June 5, 1826, in London, where he had traveled to oversee the production of his opera “Oberon.” His legacy endures through his contributions to music, particularly in the realm of opera.

5 Interesting Facts about Carl Maria von Weber

1. Carl Maria von Weber was a cousin of Mozart’s wife, Constanze Weber.

2. His opera “Der Freischütz” is considered the first German national opera and a quintessential example of Romanticism in music.

3. Weber was also a talented pianist and composed several important works for the instrument, including the “Invitation to the Dance.”

4. He was appointed Kapellmeister (music director) of the Dresden Opera, where he worked to elevate German opera.

5. Weber’s health was poor for much of his life, and he suffered from tuberculosis, which ultimately led to his early death at the age of 39.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Carl Maria von Weber

1. “Music is the true universal language.”

2. “The artist’s feeling is his law.”

3. “To achieve great things, two things are needed: a plan and not quite enough time.”

4. “Where the heart has greater riches, the mind will find greater pleasures.”

5. “The essence of art is to capture the spirit of the moment and make it timeless.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Carl Maria von Weber’s highest net worth is not precisely documented, but as a successful composer and conductor of his time, he was well-respected and held significant positions in the musical world.

Children

Carl Maria von Weber had two children with his wife, Caroline Brandt: 1. Max Maria von Weber (1822–1881) – He became a notable civil engineer and author. 2. Alexandra von Weber (1824–1878) – She married into the noble family von Bockum-Dolffs.