Walter, August

1821-1896

German composer and director; rendered long and valued service as music-director at Basel. He was born at Stuttgart, began life as a pastry-cook's apprentice, found opportunity to study music, received instruction of Molique in violin and composition, at Vienna was under the instruction of Sechter. In 1846 he was appointed music-director at Basel. He was the author of songs, choruses, three string quartets, octet for strings and wind, and a symphony. His wife, Frau Strauss-Walter, was a celebrated concert singer.