Alexander Zemlinsky (14 October 1871 – 15 March 1942) was an influential Austrian composer, conductor, and teacher. Born in Vienna to a diverse family, his early life was shaped by his Jewish heritage, as his family converted to Judaism. He began studying the piano at a young age and later attended the Vienna Conservatory, where he excelled in music. Zemlinsky was mentored by esteemed composers such as Brahms and Bruckner. He formed a close friendship with Arnold Schoenberg, who would later become a famous composer himself.

Zemlinsky won acclaim for his musical compositions, including his opera “Es war einmal,” which was conducted by Gustav Mahler in 1900. Throughout his career, he composed various works, ranging from symphonies to chamber music. As a conductor, he was recognised for his interpretations of Mozart and Mahler. Unfortunately, Zemlinsky’s later years were overshadowed by the rise of the Nazi regime, forcing him to flee to New York, where he passed away in 1942, largely forgotten.