Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1666

Death

:

1741

Genre

:

Choral

 

Francesco Scarlatti was an Italian composer of the Baroque era, born on January 4, 1666, in Palermo, Sicily. He was the younger brother of the famous composer Alessandro Scarlatti and the uncle of Domenico Scarlatti, who also became a renowned composer. Francesco Scarlatti was born into a family of musicians, and his father, Pietro Scarlatti, was a composer and musician as well. Francesco Scarlatti began his musical education at a young age, studying under his father and later under the composer Giacomo Carissimi in Rome. He also studied with his brother Alessandro, who was already a successful composer at the time. Francesco Scarlatti's early works were mainly vocal compositions, including cantatas and oratorios, which were performed in Rome and other Italian cities. In 1694, Francesco Scarlatti was appointed as the maestro di cappella at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, a position he held for over 30 years. During his tenure, he composed numerous sacred works, including masses, motets, and hymns, which were performed at the basilica and other churches in Rome. He also composed secular works, such as operas and chamber music, which were performed in various venues throughout Italy. One of Francesco Scarlatti's most famous works is his oratorio "Il martirio di Santa Cecilia" (The Martyrdom of Saint Cecilia), which was first performed in Rome in 1708. The oratorio tells the story of Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music, who was martyred for her faith. The work is notable for its expressive vocal writing and dramatic use of orchestration, and it remains a popular piece in the Baroque repertoire. Another notable work by Francesco Scarlatti is his opera "La Griselda," which was first performed in Rome in 1721. The opera tells the story of Griselda, a peasant girl who is married to a nobleman and subjected to various trials and tribulations. The opera was well-received at the time and was later revived in the 20th century, becoming one of Scarlatti's most popular works. Francesco Scarlatti's music is characterized by its expressive melodies, intricate harmonies, and dramatic use of counterpoint. His vocal works are particularly notable for their use of ornamentation and virtuosic vocal writing, which were hallmarks of the Baroque era. His instrumental works, such as his sonatas and chamber music, are also notable for their inventive use of form and texture. Francesco Scarlatti died on October 22, 1741, in Rome, at the age of 75. He left behind a legacy of music that continues to be performed and admired to this day. His influence can be seen in the works of his nephew Domenico Scarlatti, as well as in the music of other Baroque composers such as Handel and Bach.

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