Carl Dahlhaus was a prominent German musicologist known for his extensive research and writings on music theory and history. Born in 1928, he made significant contributions to the understanding of Western classical music, particularly in the areas of 19th-century music and music aesthetics. His work often explored the relationship between music and its cultural context. Dahlhaus was also influential in the development of musicology as an academic discipline. He published numerous books and articles, including the notable Nineteenth-Century Music, which remains a key reference in the field. His analytical approach helped shape modern musicological methods and fostered a deeper appreciation for the complexities of musical works.