Weyse, Christoph Ernst Friedrich

1774-1842

Distinguished Danish composer, who wrote both sacred and secular music; will long be remembered in Denmark for his collection of one hundred romances. He was born at Altona, and died at Copenhagen. His early musical training was received from his grandfather, cantor at Altona. He later studied in Copenhagen under Schultz, by whom he was recommended for organist at the Reformed Church. After serving here he filled the post of organist at the Church of Our Lady. Weyse was noted for his improvisations. Among his most important church compositions are a Miserere, Den Ambrosianske lovsang, hymns and thirty large cantatas. His pieces for the piano were highly regarded; he wrote carols, overtures, a symphony, several operas, the opera, Sovedrikken, notably successful.