Gustav Albert Lortzing (October 23, 1801 – January 21, 1851) was a German composer, librettist, actor, and singer, renowned for his contributions to the genre of German Spieloper, a form akin to the French opéra comique. Born in Berlin to itinerant actor parents, Lortzing was largely self-taught in music. His career began at a young age, performing in various German cities as part of the Josef Derossi Ensemble. Lortzing married actress Rosina Regine Ahles, with whom he had 11 children.

Lortzing's first opera, "Ali Pascha von Janina," premiered in 1824, but his acclaim primarily rests on his operas "Zar und Zimmermann" (1837) and "Der Wildschütz" (1842). "Zar und Zimmermann," based on Tsar Peter the Great's travels, initially struggled in Leipzig but gained recognition in Berlin and was translated into multiple languages. "Der Wildschütz," a satire on bourgeois admiration for art, was also successful.

Throughout his life, Lortzing faced challenges, including financial difficulties and disputes with theater management. He served as Kapellmeister in various theaters, including the Leipzig Stadttheater and Vienna's Theater an der Wien. Despite these challenges, he left a lasting legacy in German opera, blending spoken dialogue with music and humor. Lortzing died in Berlin, where a statue commemorates his contributions to music.