Ferenc Erkel

He was the father of Hungarian grand opera, written mainly on historical themes, which are still often performed in Hungary.

He also composed the music of "Himnusz", the national anthem of Hungary, which was adopted in 1844.

Beside his operas, for which he is best known, he wrote pieces for piano and chorus, and a majestic Festival Overture.

He was also the director and piano teacher of the Hungarian Academy of Music until 1886.

The Hungarian State Opera House in Budapest was opened in 1884, of which he was the musical director.