Franjo Ksaver Kuhač was a notable Croatian piano teacher, choral conductor, and composer. Born on 20 November 1834 in Osijek, he was raised in a German family. Kuhač began his studies in music after training to become a teacher. He studied in various places, including Pest, Vienna, and Leipzig, where he learned piano from the famous composer Franz Liszt. Kuhač had a deep passion for folk music, collecting over 5,000 folk songs during his travels across Europe.

In 1871, he changed his name to Franjo Ksaver Kuhač and moved to Zagreb to teach at the Croatian Musical Institute. He published significant works, including “South-Slavic Folk Songs” and teaching guides for piano-playing. Kuhač is also known for linking Croatian folk tunes to classical music, particularly the works of Joseph Haydn. He passed away on 18 June 1911, leaving a lasting impact on music in Croatia and the appreciation of folk traditions.