Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Czech Republic

Birth

:

1660 in Olomouc, Moravia

Death

:

August, 1730 in Mannheim, Germany

Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Gottfried Finger was a German-born composer and musician who lived during the Baroque period. He was born in Olomouc, Moravia (now part of the Czech Republic) in 1660. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he received his musical education in Prague. Finger began his career as a musician in the court of Prince Lobkowicz in Prague. He played the viola da gamba and the bassoon, and he also composed music for the court. In 1685, he moved to Dresden, where he worked as a musician in the court of Elector Johann Georg III. Finger was a versatile musician, and he played a variety of instruments, including the viola da gamba, the bassoon, the cello, and the harpsichord. During his time in Dresden, Finger composed a number of works for the court, including sonatas, suites, and concertos. His music was well-received, and he became known as one of the leading composers of his time. In 1690, he was appointed as the court composer for the Elector of Saxony, and he held this position until 1695. In 1695, Finger moved to London, where he worked as a freelance musician and composer. He quickly established himself as a prominent figure in the London music scene, and he was soon appointed as a musician in the court of King William III. Finger continued to compose music during his time in London, and he wrote a number of works for the court, including operas, cantatas, and instrumental music. Finger's music was characterized by its virtuosity and its use of counterpoint. He was influenced by the music of his contemporaries, including Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel, and his music was often compared favorably to theirs. Finger's music was also notable for its use of dance rhythms, which were a popular feature of Baroque music. Some of Finger's most famous works include his Sonata in D major for viola da gamba and continuo, his Sonata in G minor for bassoon and continuo, and his Sonata in D minor for cello and continuo. He also wrote a number of operas, including Daphne and Aeneas, which were well-received by audiences in London. Finger continued to work as a musician and composer in London until his death in 1730. He was buried in St. Anne's Church in Soho, London. Despite his contributions to the music of his time, Finger's music fell out of favor in the years following his death, and it was largely forgotten until the 20th century. Today, Finger's music is once again appreciated for its beauty and its historical significance, and it is performed by musicians around the world.

More....