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German-Danish composer and pianist of the late Classical and early Romantic periods, renowned for his prolific output of flute compositions and significant contributions to Danish musical life.Born near Hannover, Germany, Kuhlau fled to Copenhagen to avoid Napoleonic conscription in 1810. He became a Danish citizen in 1813 and was appointed court pianist. He is most celebrated for his flute sonatas, concertos, and chamber music, earning the nickname 'The Beethoven of the Flute'. He also composed successful operas, piano works, and songs. Despite his popularity, he struggled financially throughout his life. A devastating house fire in 1831 destroyed many unpublished manuscripts.

• As a child, Kuhlau lost his right eye in a street accident, which did not prevent him from becoming a skilled pianist.
• He fled Germany in 1810 primarily to evade conscription into Napoleon's army, making a perilous journey to Denmark via Sweden.
• His opera 'Elverhøj' (Elves' Hill, 1828), written for the wedding of Crown Prince Frederik (later Frederik VII) and Princess Vilhelmine Marie, was a huge success and remains one of the most famous Danish operas; its overture is still used for royal occasions.
• Kuhlau was instrumental in introducing Beethoven's music to Denmark and became personally acquainted with Beethoven in Vienna in 1825. Legend suggests Beethoven only agreed to write the canon 'Kühl, nicht lau' (Cool, not lukewarm) after Kuhlau demonstrated his drinking prowess.
• Despite his court position and popularity, Kuhlau faced constant financial difficulties, partly due to supporting his parents and an extravagant lifestyle.
• A catastrophic fire destroyed his home in Lyngby, near Copenhagen, in late 1831, consuming many unpublished compositions and contributing to his declining health.
• He died from complications related to his lifelong heavy drinking on March 12, 1832, in Copenhagen.