Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Italy

Birth

:

December 7, 1648 in Parma, Italy

Death

:

October 16, 1726 in Parma, Italy

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Giovanni Maria Capelli was an Italian composer of the Baroque era, born in Bologna on January 1, 1659. He was the son of a musician, and his father recognized his son's musical talent at an early age. Capelli received his first musical education from his father, who taught him to play the violin and the harpsichord. Capelli's musical education continued at the Accademia Filarmonica di Bologna, where he studied composition with Giovanni Paolo Colonna. He quickly became known for his talent as a composer, and his works were performed in Bologna and other cities in Italy. In 1682, Capelli was appointed maestro di cappella at the Basilica di San Petronio in Bologna, a position he held for the rest of his life. He also served as maestro di cappella at the Basilica di San Domenico in Bologna from 1690 to 1700. Capelli's compositions include sacred music, such as masses, motets, and psalms, as well as secular music, such as operas and cantatas. His sacred music is characterized by its expressive melodies and rich harmonies, while his secular music is known for its lively rhythms and catchy tunes. One of Capelli's most famous works is his oratorio "Il martirio di Santa Caterina," which was first performed in Bologna in 1697. The oratorio tells the story of the martyrdom of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, and features arias, duets, and choruses that showcase Capelli's skill as a composer. Capelli also composed several operas, including "La virtù coronata," which was first performed in Bologna in 1690. The opera tells the story of a virtuous queen who is crowned after defeating her enemies, and features arias, duets, and choruses that are both dramatic and lyrical. In addition to his work as a composer, Capelli was also a respected music teacher. He taught composition at the Accademia Filarmonica di Bologna, and his students included several notable composers, such as Giuseppe Tartini and Antonio Caldara. Capelli died in Bologna on January 27, 1740, at the age of 81. His legacy as a composer and teacher lives on, and his works continue to be performed and studied by musicians and music lovers around the world.

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