Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1610

Death

:

1665

Genre

:

Choral

 

João Lourenço Rebelo was a prominent Portuguese composer of the Baroque era. He was born in Lisbon in 1610, and his family was known for their musical talents. Rebelo's father, Baltazar Rebelo, was a musician and composer, and his mother, Maria de Sousa, was a singer. Rebelo grew up in a musical environment and showed an early interest in music. Rebelo received his musical education at the Lisbon Cathedral, where he was a choirboy. He studied under the renowned composer Manuel Cardoso, who was the chapel master at the cathedral. Rebelo's talent was evident from an early age, and he quickly became one of Cardoso's star pupils. Rebelo's education at the cathedral was comprehensive, and he learned not only music but also Latin, theology, and philosophy. After completing his education at the cathedral, Rebelo became a musician at the Royal Chapel in Lisbon. He worked there for several years, honing his skills as a composer and performer. In 1644, Rebelo was appointed the chapel master at the Royal Chapel, a position he held until his death. Rebelo's music was highly regarded during his lifetime, and he was considered one of the leading composers of his time. His music was performed not only in Portugal but also in other European countries, including Spain and Italy. Rebelo's music was known for its complexity and sophistication, and he was particularly skilled at writing polyphonic music. One of Rebelo's most famous works is his Missa de Santo António, which was composed in 1650. The mass is a masterpiece of Baroque music, and it is still performed today. The mass is notable for its intricate polyphony and its use of chromaticism, which was a relatively new technique at the time. Rebelo also composed a number of other works, including motets, hymns, and villancicos. His music was often performed at the Royal Chapel, and he was highly respected by his peers. Rebelo's music was also popular with the public, and he was known for his ability to write music that was both complex and accessible. In addition to his work as a composer, Rebelo was also a skilled performer. He was an accomplished organist and harpsichordist, and he often performed his own music. Rebelo was also known for his ability to improvise, and he was admired for his skill in this area. Rebelo died in Lisbon in 1661, at the age of 51. His legacy as a composer and musician lives on, and his music continues to be performed and admired today. Rebelo's contributions to the development of Baroque music in Portugal were significant, and he is remembered as one of the country's greatest composers.

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