Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

May, 1690 in Parma, Italy

Death

:

December 11, 1757 in Kassel, Germany

 

Fortunato Chelleri was an Italian composer of the Baroque era, born on October 1, 1690, in Carpi, a town in the province of Modena, Italy. He was the son of a musician, and his father, Giovanni Battista Chelleri, was a violinist and composer. Fortunato Chelleri grew up in a musical family, and he showed an early interest in music. He received his first music lessons from his father and later studied with the famous composer and violinist, Arcangelo Corelli. Chelleri's musical career began in Rome, where he worked as a violinist and composer. He was a member of the orchestra of the Basilica of St. John Lateran, one of the most important churches in Rome. In 1716, he became the maestro di cappella of the church of San Giovanni dei Fiorentini, a position he held until 1723. During this time, he composed several works for the church, including masses, motets, and psalms. In 1723, Chelleri moved to Vienna, where he became a member of the court orchestra of Emperor Charles VI. He worked as a violinist and composer for the court, and he also taught music to the imperial family. Chelleri's music was well-received in Vienna, and he became known for his elegant and refined style. He composed several works for the court, including operas, cantatas, and instrumental music. One of Chelleri's most famous works is his opera, La Statira, which was first performed in Vienna in 1726. The opera is based on the story of Statira, the wife of the Persian king Darius III, who was captured by Alexander the Great. The opera was a great success, and it was performed several times in Vienna and other European cities. Chelleri's music was praised for its beauty and expressiveness, and he became known as one of the leading composers of his time. Chelleri's other works include several instrumental pieces, such as sonatas and concertos. His music is characterized by its elegance, grace, and lyricism. He was influenced by the music of Corelli and other Italian composers, but he also incorporated elements of the Viennese style into his music. Chelleri's music was popular during his lifetime, but it fell out of favor after his death. However, in recent years, his music has been rediscovered and is now appreciated for its beauty and historical significance. Chelleri died on January 19, 1757, in Vienna, at the age of 66. He left behind a legacy of beautiful music that continues to be enjoyed by music lovers around the world. His works are a testament to the rich musical tradition of the Baroque era, and they continue to inspire and delight audiences today.

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