Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Austria

Birth

:

November 3, 1656 in Vienna, Austria

Death

:

August 29, 1738 in Vienna, Austria

Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

Johann Georg Reutter was a prominent composer of the Baroque era, born on December 27, 1708, in Graz, Austria. He was the son of Georg Reutter, a court musician, and his wife, Maria Elisabeth. Johann Georg Reutter was the eldest of six children, all of whom were musically talented. His siblings included Franz Joseph Reutter, who became a composer and conductor, and Maria Theresia von Paradis, a blind pianist and composer. Johann Georg Reutter received his early musical education from his father, who was a skilled musician and composer. He also studied with Johann Joseph Fux, a prominent composer and music theorist of the time. Reutter's talent was evident from a young age, and he quickly became known for his skill as a composer and performer. In 1730, Reutter was appointed as the court composer and Kapellmeister at the court of the Archbishop of Salzburg. He held this position for over 30 years, during which time he composed a large number of works for the court, including operas, oratorios, and sacred music. Reutter's music was highly regarded by his contemporaries, and he was considered one of the leading composers of his time. One of Reutter's most famous works is his oratorio "Der Tod Jesu" (The Death of Jesus), which was first performed in 1755. The oratorio tells the story of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is considered one of the most significant works of the Baroque era. The piece is notable for its use of choruses and soloists, as well as its intricate harmonies and complex counterpoint. Reutter also composed a number of operas, including "L'Innocenza Giustificata" (Innocence Justified), which was first performed in 1737. The opera tells the story of a young woman who is falsely accused of a crime and is eventually proven innocent. The work is notable for its use of recitative and aria, as well as its intricate orchestration. In addition to his work as a composer, Reutter was also a skilled performer. He was known for his ability to play the organ, harpsichord, and violin, and he often performed in concerts and recitals. Reutter was also a respected music teacher, and he taught a number of prominent musicians, including his own son, Franz Joseph Reutter. Johann Georg Reutter died on October 11, 1772, in Salzburg, Austria. He was remembered as one of the most important composers of the Baroque era, and his music continued to be performed and admired long after his death. Reutter's legacy lives on through his many compositions, which continue to be studied and performed by musicians around the world.

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