Fritz Kreisler (1875-1962) was an Austrian-born violinist and composer, one of the most beloved performers of the early twentieth century. Born in Vienna, he studied at the conservatory there and later in Paris before building an international career.

As a composer he wrote many short violin pieces, including Liebesleid, Liebesfreud and Schön Rosmarin. He also created pastiches in older styles, some initially presented under the names of earlier composers.

Kreisler’s music is graceful, nostalgic and exquisitely idiomatic for the violin. Its charm depends not merely on melody, but on a deep understanding of bow, finger and phrase.

His playing shaped generations of violinists, and his pieces remain central to the encore repertory. Kreisler turned Viennese sweetness into something both personal and indestructible.