Josip Hatze

Joseph Hatze (1879–1959) was one of the first and most prominent Croatian composers at the beginning of the 20th century. Hatze was born in Split (then Austro-Hungarian Empire, now Croatia) to a family of craftsmen from Split. Whilst still at school he attended musical events, especially of sacred music and folk songs. Upon discovering his musicality, and with family support, he attended all the performances in the newly opened Municipal Theater in Split.