Member of a Bohemian family of musicians whose activities have continued in Germany and elsewhere since the early 18th century, František Benda, the first of five musician offspring of the elder Jan Jiří Benda, after various adventures and escapades, joined the musical establishment of the future Frederick the Great as a violinist, studying composition with the Graun brothers. He was appointed Konzertmeister in 1771.

Orchestral Music

Benda left 17 symphonies and a similar number of violin concertos. He also wrote four flute concertos, presumably with the flautist King Frederick in mind.

Chamber Music

Benda wrote a quantity of music for various chamber ensembles, as well as sonatas and studies for the violin, the latter in collaboration with his younger brother and pupil Joseph.