The German-born composer Friedrich Kuhlau settled in Copenhagen, where he made a name for himself in spite of continuing financial problems. Although not a flautist himself, he is known in particular for his considerable contribution to flute repertoire, of which the present trios for three flutes are an example. A close contemporary of Weber, Kuhlau enjoyed a reputation as a pianist and composer, writing music that is characteristic of its time, with a fine grasp of flute idiom.