Johann Joseph Fux

Johann Joseph Fux (1660-1741) was an Austrian composer and music theorist who is remembered today for his treatise Gradus ad Parnassum, where he laid out the principles of counterpoint in a dialogue form modeled after Plato. As a composer, Fux wrote in two styles, in the strict manner of Palestrina, for his church music, and in a more relaxed style for his secular works. After being appointed to several posts under previous emperors, Fux held the influential position of kapellmeister in the court of Charles VI, and represented the conservative side of Viennese music at the close of the Baroque period.