Carl Maria von Weber was a German composer, conductor, pianist, guitarist, and music critic, born on November 18 or 19, 1786, in Eutin, Germany. He was a pivotal figure in the early Romantic period and made significant contributions to the development of German Romantic opera. Weber was a child prodigy, composing operas and piano pieces at a young age. His early education in music was guided by several prominent teachers, including Michael Haydn and Georg Joseph Vogler.

Weber's career included notable positions as the Director of the Opera in Prague and Dresden. His most famous work, the opera "Der Freischütz," premiered in 1821 and is considered one of the first German nationalist operas. He also composed other significant operas such as "Euryanthe" and "Oberon." His compositions influenced many later composers, including Wagner, Mendelssohn, Chopin, and Liszt.

Weber passed away on June 5, 1826, in London due to complications from tuberculosis. His legacy as a composer remains influential, particularly in the realm of opera and Romantic music.