Wolfgang Fortner was born in Leipzig on October 12, 1907.

After studying organ and composition at the Leipzig Conservatory and philosophy, musicology and German studies at university, he took on a teaching position for music theory at the Protestant Church Music Institute in Heidelberg.

During the National Socialist era, he gave concerts with various German orchestras in Germany and abroad and took part in the musical training of the Hitler Youth. After the Second World War, Fortner was classified as a follower, but was allowed to continue practicing his profession.

In the decades that followed, he conducted various renowned orchestras, held a number of teaching positions and was involved in various musical organizations and associations. His works include operas, ballets, vocal and orchestral works as well as chamber music.

On the occasion of his 75th birthday, a concert was given in his honor in Wiesbaden. Lord Mayor Hans-Joachim Jentsch welcomed Prof. Dr. h.c. Fortner in the town hall and congratulated him on his life's work. The artist expressed his appreciation in his speech and then signed the city's Golden Book.

Prof. Dr. h.c. Wolfgang Fortner died in Heidelberg on September 5, 1987.