A file picture dated 14 April 2011 shows German composer Hans Werner Henze at the German Music Authors Prize in Berlin, Germany. He was honoured for his life's work. epa/ Britta Pedersen
FRANKFURT, Germany: Hans Werner Henze, one of Germany's foremost composers, has died at the age of 86, his publisher Schott Music announced on Saturday.
"Hans Werner Henze, one of the most versatile and influential composers of our time has died," Schott said in a statement on its website, saying the composer died in Dresden on Saturday.
Born in Guetersloh on July 1, 1926, Henze's prolific output covered a wide range of works, including more than 40 operas and pieces for the stage, 10 symphonies, concertos, chamber music, oratorios and song.
"His oeuvre combines both timeless beauty and contemporary political commitment," Schott wrote.
Henze was openly gay and made his home just outside Rome with his long-term partner Fausto Moroni, who he met in 1964 but who died in 2007. (AFP)
