Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1706

Death

:

1765

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

José de Orejon y Aparicio was a Spanish composer and musician who lived during the 18th century. He was born in 1706 in the city of La Coruña, in the region of Galicia, Spain. His father was a musician, and he began his musical education at a young age, studying with his father and other local musicians. As a young man, Orejon y Aparicio moved to Madrid to further his musical education. He studied with some of the most prominent musicians of the time, including Antonio Literes and Francisco Corselli. He also became a member of the Royal Chapel, where he served as a singer and organist. Orejon y Aparicio's early works were primarily vocal music, including operas, cantatas, and oratorios. His first opera, "La Viuda Valenciana," was performed in Madrid in 1730 and was well-received. He went on to compose several more operas, including "La Celosa de sí Misma" and "La Madrileña." In addition to his work as a composer, Orejon y Aparicio was also a respected music theorist. He wrote several treatises on music theory, including "Reglas generales para acompañar la música con la guitarra" and "Reglas para la composición de la música." One of Orejon y Aparicio's most famous works is his "Miserere," a setting of the Psalm 50 that was performed annually during Holy Week at the Royal Chapel. The piece is known for its intricate harmonies and use of chromaticism, and it remains a popular work in the choral repertoire today. Orejon y Aparicio also composed several instrumental works, including sonatas for various instruments and a set of six quartets for strings. His instrumental music is characterized by its elegant melodies and use of counterpoint. Despite his success as a composer and musician, Orejon y Aparicio faced several challenges throughout his career. He struggled with financial difficulties and was often forced to take on other jobs to make ends meet. He also faced criticism from some of his contemporaries, who felt that his music was too conservative and lacked originality. Despite these challenges, Orejon y Aparicio continued to compose and perform throughout his life. He died in Madrid in 1765, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most important composers of his time. His music continues to be performed and studied today, and he is remembered as a key figure in the development of Spanish classical music.

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