Ignaz Holzbauer

Ignaz Holzbauer, born in Vienna in 1711, began his musical career as a self-taught musician. After traveling to Italy and spending years as music director at the Burgtheater in Vienna alongside renowned figures such as Galuppi and Gluck, he moved to Stuttgart in 1751 to serve as chief conductor, where he enjoyed great success with his stage works. Shortly thereafter, he was appointed Kapellmeister of the legendary Mannheim Court Orchestra, a position he held until his death on April 7, 1783. His innovative symphonic church style is based on a deep understanding of contemporary musical trends, combined with a love of experimentation and a distinct talent for dramatic music. Mozart, too, appreciated this “fine church style” and “fine arrangement of the vocal parts.” Holzbauer shaped the “Mannheim style” and, with it, an entire generation of composers and musicians.