Carl Maria Friedrich Ernst von Weber was born on November 18, 1786, in Eutin, in the Prince-Bishopric of Lübeck, part of the Holy Roman Empire. He was a pivotal figure in the early Romantic period of music, recognized primarily for his contributions to German Romantic opera. Weber's most celebrated operatic works include "Der Freischütz" (1821), "Euryanthe" (1823), and "Oberon" (1826), with "Der Freischütz" being particularly influential in establishing the German Romantic opera tradition.

Weber was born into a musically inclined family. His father, Franz Anton von Weber, was a musician who ambitiously moved the family across various cities such as Hamburg, Salzburg, Freiberg, Augsburg, and Vienna, seeking opportunities for his son. Despite being born with a congenital hip disorder that affected his mobility, Weber's musical talents were nurtured by several teachers, including Michael Haydn, the younger brother of Joseph Haydn. Under Haydn's guidance, Weber published his first work, "Sechs Fughetten," in 1798.

Throughout his career, Weber held various positions, including musical director at Breslau and director of music for Duke Eugen of Württemberg. His works extended beyond opera to include symphonies, concertos, and piano pieces, such as "Invitation to the Dance." His compositions often featured the clarinet, influenced by his collaboration with virtuoso clarinetist Heinrich Baermann.

Weber's life was marked by challenges, including a near-fatal accident that impaired his voice and financial difficulties that led to brief imprisonment and banishment from the court of King Frederick I of Württemberg. Despite these setbacks, he continued to compose and influence future generations of composers like Mendelssohn, Chopin, Liszt, Marschner, Meyerbeer, and Wagner.

Carl Maria von Weber passed away on June 5, 1826, in London, England, at the age of 39. His legacy endures through his significant contributions to the Romantic music movement and his role in shaping German opera.