Sperger was born in Feldsberg,[1] and trained from 1767 in Vienna as a contrabassist and composer.

From 1778 he was also a member in the Wiener Tonkünstlersozietät, participating in its concerts several times playing his own works and as soloist.

From 1783 to 1786, Sperger was a member of the Hofkapelle of count Ludwig von Erdödy in Kohfidisch.

He was a prolific composer, writing at least forty-four symphonies, numerous instrumental concertos, including eighteen for contrabass.

He also wrote sonatas, rondos and dances, cantatas, choral works, and airs.