The world-famous composer of The Merry Widow (1905), Franz Lehár, was born in Komáron, Hungary. A major influence in twentieth century Viennese operetta, he was the author of more than 30 scores in the genre, including The Count of Luxembourg (1909), Gypsy Love (1910), Eva (1911), and The Land of Smiles (1929). After studying violin at the Prague Conservatoire, Lehár played in military bands before turning his attention to the theatre. A master of nostalgia and lush, infectious vocal melodies, he was also, as these late recordings illustrate, a stylish arranger and a sensitive conductor of his own creations.