Muller, Wenzel

1767-1835

Writer of German light opera; born at Tyrnau, in Moravia. After studying for a time   under Dittersdorf he obtained a position as orchestra conductor at the Brun-n Theatre in 1783, leaving it in 1786 to conduct in Marinelli's Theatre in Vienna. From 1808 to 1813 he directed opera in Prague, where his daughter, known as Madame Grunbaum, was one of the singers. On his return to Vienna he was appointed conductor of the Leopoldstadt Theatre, a position which he held until a short time before he died at Baden, near Vienna. Immensely popular as a writer of light operas, he was in the habit of incorporating in his operas themes from national melodies and dances, a device which greatly pleased the people. Among his productions may be mentioned Das Sonnenfest der Braminen; Das neue Sontagskind; Die Schwestern von Prag; Zauberzither or Kasper der Fagottist; Die Teufelsmuhle auf dem Wienerberge; Tizzischi; Die Alte liberal! und nirgends; Die Entführing der Prinzessin Europa; and travestierte Zauberflote. He also wrote symphonies, masses and overtures.