Friedrich Adolf Ferdinand, Freiherr von Flotow was a German composer born on 27 April 1812 in Teutendorf, Mecklenburg. He is best known for his opera Martha, which gained popularity in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Flotow came from an aristocratic family and was trained in France, studying at the Conservatoire de Paris under Anton Reicha. Influenced by composers like Auber and Rossini, his works often reflect a French opéra comique style. He wrote his first opera, Pierre et Cathérine, in 1835, but his significant success came with Le naufrage de la Méduse in 1839. Martha premiered in Vienna in 1847 and became one of his most beloved operas.

Throughout his career, Flotow composed around 30 operas, many of which are now less performed. His music, including the famous piece “Ach! so fromm, ach! so traut”, showcases the blend of German and French musical traditions. Flotow passed away on 24 January 1883 in Darmstadt, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of opera.