Anton Bruckner (1824–1896) was an Austrian composer and organist renowned for his expansive symphonies and sacred choral works such as Masses, the Te Deum, and motets. His music, marked by rich harmonies, complex polyphony, and impressive length, stands as a hallmark of late Austro-German Romanticism. Bruckner's innovative use of harmony and form made him a figure of musical radicalism, yet he remained personally modest and deeply respectful toward other composers, especially Wagner. Known for repeatedly revising his works, Bruckner sometimes struggled with self-doubt, resulting in multiple versions of many pieces. While his symphonies faced criticism for their scale and repetition, Bruckner's influence grew, inspiring later composers including Gustav Mahler.