Herzogenberg, Heinrich von

1843-1900

Pianist and composer. Born at Graz. Among modern German musicians he is given first place by lovers of purely classical music. In early life he was greatly influenced by Wagner, but later came more and more under the spell of Schumann and Brahms. His piano performances were noted for rare finish. He was one of the founders of the Leipsic Bach Verein. Was professor of composition at the Berlin Hochschule for Music, as successor to Kiel; president of the Meisterschule for composition, and a member of the Academy. His compositions are marked by skilful and artistic workmanship. Best known among them are the settings of the 94th and 116th Psalms for choir; two piano works for four hands; two string trios; two odes, and requiem mass, which was suggested by the death of his wife, Elizabeth Stockhausen von Herzogenberg, also an accomplished pianist and composer of some ability. Ill health caused him to give up public appearances, and he died in Italy in 1900.