Béni Egressy (1814-1851) was a Hungarian composer, librettist, actor and translator, remembered above all for his role in Hungary’s national musical culture. Born Galambos Benjámin, he worked in theatre and music during a period of intense national awakening.

His best-known composition is the music for Szózat, one of Hungary’s most important patriotic songs. He also wrote stage music and libretti, including work connected with Ferenc Erkel, a central figure in Hungarian opera.

Egressy’s music belongs to a world where theatre, poetry and national feeling were closely entwined. Its importance lies not in large-scale formal innovation, but in its public voice and cultural resonance.

Though a small name in international concert history, Egressy occupies a meaningful place in Hungarian musical memory. Some composers enter history through symphonies; others through songs a nation keeps in its pocket.