Franz Xaver Gruber
Franz Xaver Gruber was born on November 25, 1787, in Hochburg-Ach, Upper Austria, in the Habsburg monarchy. He was the son of linen weavers Josef and Maria Gruber. Initially named Conrad Xavier, his name was later changed to Franz Xaver. Despite his family's impoverished background, Gruber pursued music, learning the violin against his father's wishes and studying organ under Georg Hartdobler.
Gruber began his career as a weaver but transitioned to teaching at the age of 18. In 1807, he became a primary school teacher in Arnsdorf, Austria, and also served as the church organist and caretaker. By 1816, he was the organist and choirmaster at the Nikolauskirche in Oberndorf, where he composed the music for "Stille Nacht" ("Silent Night") in collaboration with Joseph Mohr, a Catholic priest who wrote the original lyrics. The carol was first performed on Christmas Eve of 1818 at St. Nicholas Church, with Mohr playing the guitar.
Throughout his life, Gruber composed over 90 musical pieces, including various carols and masses. He married three times and had several children, though many did not survive to adulthood. Gruber spent his later years in Hallein, Salzburg, where he was a choir director, singer, and organist. He passed away on June 7, 1863, in Hallein, Austrian Empire. His legacy endures primarily through the enduring popularity of "Silent Night."
