Although Nessler was born and raised in Alsace his effective employment was in Strasbourg and Leipzig Germany. He was expelled from theological studies because of his interest in music. Composing sacred choral works and some incidental music, Nessler came to the public eye with the successful performance of his opera "Fleurette" in 1864. He was then able to study with Hauptmann and held conducting positions for a number of choruses during this time. Eventually he was able to forsake his conducting duties and fully pursue composition though he continued as a choral director in Leipzig's State Theatre. Nessler's other operas included "Der Trompeter von Sackingen," "Otto der Schutz," and "Die Rose von Strassburg." The former opera kept Nessler popular in Germany for a number of years. ~ Keith Johnson, Rovi