Hans Werner Henze was a prominent German composer born on July 1, 1926, in Gütersloh, Germany. He is known for his diverse body of work, which includes operas, symphonies, and chamber music. Henze's compositions often reflect his interest in social and political themes, influenced by his experiences during and after World War II. Throughout his career, Henze collaborated with various artists and writers, including the playwright Peter Handke. He spent much of his later life in Italy, where the culture and landscape inspired many of his works. Henze passed away on October 27, 2012, leaving a significant legacy in contemporary classical music.