Cesar Franck was a Belgian composer, organist, and music teacher who lived in the 19th century. He is best known for his compositions in the Romantic style, such as his Symphony in D minor and his Violin Sonata in A major. He also wrote several choral works, including the oratorio Les Beatitudes. His influence on 20th-century music was significant, with composers such as Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel, and Igor Stravinsky citing him as an influence.