Scanning the responses to date, I don't think anyone has mentioned Hector
Berlioz from the 19th century.  Of course he is know for writing important
romantic era music in many genres; I was listening to Regine Crispin's
fantastic rendition of the song cycle, Les Nuits d'ete, last night.  His
memoirs are very interesting and a book called Evenings With the Orchestra
has hilarious moments as he spoofs orchestras, musicians and society.

Ed