Ferenc Erkel (pronounced [ˈfɛrɛnts ˈɛrkɛl]; November 7, 1810]] – June 15, 1893) was a Hungarian composer. He was the father of Hungarian grand opera, written mainly on historical themes, which are still often performed in Hungary. He also composed the music of "Himnusz", the national anthem of Hungary, which was adopted in 1844. The libretti of his first four operas were written by Béni Egressy. Beside the operas, which he is the best known for, he wrote pieces for piano and chorus. Read more on Last.fm