Lóránt Fráter

Lóránt Fráter was a popular 18th century Hungarian composer of folk music. His most common styles were Nóta and "Magyar songs," which were typically performed by Gypsy orchestras. The increasing wealth of the middle classes of Hungary allowed a large volume of original poplular music to be composed and performed and his themes of a romantic-patriotic nature were in the exactly right mood of his market. The rise of Hungary to a full partnership with Austria (then called Austria-Hungary) reflected a new confidence among the Magyar-speaking populace.