Émile Waldteufel

Charles Émile Waldteufel, born on 9th December 1837 in Strasbourg, was a renowned French pianist, conductor, and composer, celebrated for his many popular salon pieces. Coming from a Jewish Alsatian family, he received early music education from his father and furthered his studies at the Conservatoire de Paris. His career flourished when he became the court pianist for Empress Eugénie and later, the musical director for Napoléon III's balls. Waldteufel married Célestine Dufau and fathered three children. His most famous waltz, 'Les Patineurs', was composed in 1882. He continued to contribute to dance music and conduct at Presidential balls until his retirement in 1899. Waldteufel passed away on 12th February 1915 in Paris.