Louis Spohr (5 April 178422 October 1859), born
Ludwig Spohr, was a German
composer,
violinist and
conductor. Highly regarded during his lifetime, Spohr composed ten symphonies, ten operas, eighteen violin concerti, four clarinet concerti, four oratorios and various works for small ensemble, chamber music and art songs. Spohr was the inventor of both the violin
chinrest and the orchestral
rehearsal mark. His output occupies a pivotal position between
Classicism and
Romanticism, but fell into obscurity following his death, when his music was rarely heard. The late 20th century saw a revival of interest in his oeuvre, especially in Europe.