Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

ca. 1640

Death

:

before May 1, 1708

Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Keyboard

 

Giovanni Battista Draghi, also known as Giovanni Battista Draghi detto il Pergolesi, was an Italian composer and organist of the Baroque era. He was born in Pergola, Italy in 1640 and was the son of a musician. His father, Giovanni Andrea Draghi, was a violinist and composer who worked in the court of the Duke of Urbino. Draghi showed an early interest in music and began his musical education under the guidance of his father. He quickly became proficient in playing the organ and the harpsichord. In 1658, he moved to Rome to study music with the renowned composer and organist, Girolamo Frescobaldi. Under Frescobaldi's tutelage, Draghi honed his skills as a composer and performer. In 1665, Draghi was appointed as the organist at the Church of San Giovanni dei Fiorentini in Rome. He held this position for several years before moving to Naples in 1672. In Naples, he worked as the organist at the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli and also served as the maestro di cappella at the Royal Chapel. During his time in Naples, Draghi composed a number of works for the church, including masses, motets, and hymns. He also wrote secular music, such as operas and cantatas. One of his most famous works is the opera "La Doriclea," which was first performed in Naples in 1679. In 1684, Draghi moved to London, where he was appointed as the organist at the Chapel Royal. He quickly became a popular figure in the London music scene and was known for his virtuosic organ playing. He also composed a number of works for the Chapel Royal, including anthems, hymns, and organ music. One of Draghi's most famous works from his time in London is the anthem "I was glad when they said unto me," which was composed for the coronation of King James II in 1685. The anthem is still performed today at coronations and other state occasions in the United Kingdom. Draghi remained in London for the rest of his life and continued to compose music until his death in 1708. He was buried in the crypt of St. Paul's Cathedral, where a plaque commemorates his life and work. Overall, Giovanni Battista Draghi was a highly skilled composer and organist who made significant contributions to the music of the Baroque era. His works are still performed and admired today, and he is remembered as one of the great musicians of his time.

More....