Franz Benda (Czech: František Benda; baptized 22 November 1709 – 7 March 1786) was a distinguished Czech violinist and composer, celebrated for his mastery of violin playing and his contributions to the German school of violin. Born in Benátky nad Jizerou, Bohemia, Benda was the eldest son of Jan Jiří Benda and Dorota Brixi, both talented musicians. His brother, Georg Benda, was also a composer.

In his youth, Benda was a chorister in Prague and at the Chapel Royal in Dresden. He began studying the violin and joined a group of strolling musicians. At eighteen, he returned to Prague and later studied under Johann Gottlieb Graun in Vienna. By 1732, Benda entered the service of Frederick the Great, then the crown prince of Prussia, and remained there for the rest of his life, eventually becoming concertmaster of the royal orchestra in 1771.

Benda's violin playing was renowned for its cantabile quality and sophisticated embellishments. He composed 17 symphonies, numerous violin concerti, and various chamber works. His legacy continued through his descendants, who also became notable musicians. Benda died in Potsdam, Germany, in 1786.