Contents
Antonio Vivaldi
Composing The Four Seasons.
L’estro armonico · The Four Seasons
- Born
- 4 March 1678
- Birthplace
- Venice, Italy
- Died
- 28 July 1741
More people
Antonio Vivaldi
Antonio Vivaldi was a Venetian composer, violinist and priest. His concertos use vivid contrasts between soloist and ensemble, while his work for a girls’ institution supported an exceptional performing tradition.
Early life
A violinist’s son
Received early musical training from his father, a violinist at St Mark’s.
Religious training
Prepared for the priesthood and was ordained in 1703.
Career
- 1703
Pietà teacher
Began teaching violin at Venice’s Ospedale della Pietà.
- 1710s
Published concertos
Built an international reputation through printed instrumental music.
- 1713 onward
Opera work
Composed and helped produce operas in Italy and beyond.
- 1740–1741
Vienna
Travelled to Vienna late in life and died there.
Selected work
L’estro armonico
A collection of concertos influential beyond Italy.
The Four Seasons
Four violin concertos depicting the changing year.
Gloria
A large choral setting associated with his sacred music.
Beyond work
The Red Priest
Known by a nickname referring to his red hair and priesthood.
Rediscovery
Much of his music returned to wider attention through twentieth-century archival discoveries and performances.
Sources & photo credit
Life and career ↗Institutional or specialist reference ↗Photo: Unidentified painter. Public domain · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
