Jacques Offenbach

Jacques Offenbach (June 20, 1819 -October 4, 1880), composer and cellist, the creator of "La vie Parisienne" and an originator of the operetta form, a precursor of the modern musical comedy. He wrote a great deal of dance music, particularly for the can-can.

Works include:

• Orphée aux enfers
• La belle Hélène

Although completely identified with France, Offenbach was of German-Jewish origin. He is buried in the Cimetière de Montmartre, Paris, France.