Wilhelm Richard Wagner (1813-1883) was a German composer, conductor, music theorist, and essayist, primarily known for his operas (later called "music dramas"). Wagner's musical style is often considered the epitome of classical music's Romantic period, due to its unprecedented exploration of emotional expression. Franz Liszt (1811-1886) was a Hungarian virtuoso pianist and composer of the Romantic period. He is considered to be one of the greatest pianists in history. He is credited with the invention of the symphonic poem, as well as the modern solo piano recital and his writings and philosophies had a significant effect on the musical culture of the time.