Danzi, Franz

1763-1826

Dramatic composer and violoncellist, who was born at Mannheim, Germany. He studied music under his father who was first violoncellist to the Elector Palatine and later took a course in composition under Abbe Vogler. When only twelve, Danzi wrote music for the violoncello and at fifteen was admitted to the Elector's band. When the band was removed to Munich he went with it, and there produced, in 1798, his first opera, Azakia. He married Margarethe Marchand, the singer, and with her made a tour which lasted six years. Returning to Munich, he was successively vice-chapelmaster at the Electoral chapel, chapelmaster to the King of Würtemburg at Stuttgart, and chapelmaster at the court of Baden at Carlsruhe, where his death occurred. Danzi wrote many operas of more than usual merit and much chamber-music. Among the best known of his operatic works are the following: Cleopatra, given at Mannheim in 1797; Die Sylphe; and Der Kuss. His other works include an oratorio; a cantata for four voices and orchestra; masses for four voices and orchestra; the 128th Psalm for four voices and orchestra; symphonies; quintets; concertos; sonatas; and many songs and choruses.  He also excelled as a teacher of singing.