Kiesewetter, Raphael Georg

1773-1850

Austrian government official and amateur musician, who devoted his life to musical research. Born at Holleschau, Moravia. At an early age went to Vienna, entered the service of the Minister of War, and traveled some years in that capacity. In 1801 he returned to Vienna and began his work of collecting old musical manuscripts and writing on numerous musical topics for magazines. Studied with Albrechtsberger and Hartmann, and became known as an authority on music. His house was frequented by musicians and music-lovers, and he was made a member of many musical societies. He was finally ennobled for his services. He died at Baden, leaving many of his musical manuscripts and letters of value to Aloys Fuchs, and his wonderful collection of old scores to the Vienna Court Library.