Heinrich Schenker (1868-1935) was an influential Austrian music theorist and pianist known for his work in music analysis and composition. He developed a method called Schenkerian analysis, which focuses on the underlying structure of music, revealing how melodies and harmonies interact. His ideas have significantly impacted the study of Western classical music. Schenker's most notable publication is the multi-volume work titled Der freie Satz, where he outlines his theories and provides examples from various composers, including Johann Sebastian Bach and Ludwig van Beethoven. His approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the deeper connections within musical works, influencing both music theory and composition practices.