Although Harald Genzmer (1909-2007) studied composition with Paul Hindemith in Berlin from 1928 to 1934, his music uses Romantic gestures and a sensual palette rarely found in his teacher’s works. What Genzmer adopted from his mentor was his masterly craftsmanship, and an appreciation of classicism, form, joy in performance and contrasting instrumental timbres. Genzmer was a well-educated member of a scholarly family, but he never regarded himself as a genius, rather a servant of performers and the public: 'Music should be full of life, artful and understandable, and equally accessible to both the performers and the audience'. Musicians have always enjoyed playing Genzmer’s inspiring music, and are doing so in increasing numbers, attracted by his skilful handling of instrumental colour.