Friedrich von Flotow

One of the more successful operatic composers in mid-19th century Germany, Friedrich von Flotow was a familiar name in opera houses well into the 20th century. His work shows the strong influence of Italian opera as well as French opera comique. Friedrich was born into an aristocratic family, and his father, a captain in the Prussian hussars, had planned a career in government and the diplomatic service for his son until the boy's musical aptitude became apparent. He studied piano and composition at the Paris Conservatory, and while living in Paris, he was exposed to the works...