Friedrich “Fritz” Kreisler was an influential violinist and composer born in Vienna. Known for his sweet tone and expressive phrasing, he developed a unique style that combined elements from the Franco-Belgian school and the gemütlich lifestyle of pre-war Vienna. At just seven years old, he entered the Vienna Conservatory, where he studied under renowned teachers. By age twelve, he won a gold medal at the Paris Conservatory, competing against much older musicians.

Kreisler made his United States debut in 1888 and gained fame through tours and concerts. He married Harriet Lies, who supported his career for sixty years. Kreisler premiered Sir Edward Elgar’s Violin Concerto in 1910 and served in the Austrian Army during World War I. He later became a naturalised American citizen. Kreisler composed many notable pieces, including “Liebesleid” and “Liebesfreud,” and his cadenzas for Beethoven’s Violin Concerto are still popular today.