The piece widely misattributed as Weber's Last Waltz, identified in Edgar Allan Poe's 1839 story The Fall of the House of Usher, originated as a composition by Carl Gottlieb Reissiger. This work, categorized as one of his Danses brillantes, op. 26, illustrates the broader creative output of a musician who balanced roles as a composer, singer, conductor, and musicologist.
Early Education and Travels
Born in 1798 in Bad Belzig, Reissiger attended the Thomasschule zu Leipzig. His initial training involved study under Johann Gottfried Schicht and Peter von Winter. In 1821, he relocated to Vienna to study with Antonio Salieri. During this period, he also engaged in theological studies at the University of Leipzig. By 1824, supported by the Prussian Ministry of Cultural Affairs, he expanded his musical education through extensive travel across France and Italy.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Dresden Court Tenure
Following the tenure of Carl Maria von Weber, he assumed the position of court chapel master in 1828. He maintained this role within the Kingdom of Saxony until his death in 1859. During his decades in Dresden, he maintained personal ties with contemporaries, including a friendship with Joachim Raff, and provided instruction to pupils such as Hermann Berens.
Scope of Compositions
The composer produced an extensive body of work spanning various genres. His theatrical contributions include nine operas, notably Didone, Der Ahnenschatz, Libella, Die Felsenmühle, and Adèle de Foix, alongside the melodrama Yelva. His sacred repertoire consists of one oratorio, David, as well as nine Latin and four German masses intended for Catholic services at court. Beyond stage and liturgical works, he authored sixty lieder, various motets, hymns, and compositions for chamber and orchestral ensembles.
Fast facts
- Born: 1798, Bad Belzig
- Died: 1859, Dresden
- Citizenship: Kingdom of Saxony
- Educated at: Thomasschule zu Leipzig
- Positions: court chapel master
- Burial site: Trinitatis Cemetery
- Occupations: composer, conductor, singer, pianist, violist, violinist, musicologist
Questions readers ask
What is the origin of Weber's Last Waltz?
It was actually composed by Carl Gottlieb Reissiger as part of his Danses brillantes, op. 26.
Where is Carl Gottlieb Reissiger buried?
He is buried at the Trinitatis Cemetery in Dresden.
Achievements
- Instruments: piano
- Genres: opera
