Arcangelo Corelli was born in 1653 in Fusigano, in the Italian province of Ravenna, in Emiglia Romagna. While not much is known of his early life, his illustrious music teacher were of great relevance Giovanni Batista Bassani tought him the violin, wile Matteo Sinonelli, one of the most reputable singers of the Pope’s chapel taught Corelli composition.

 Young Arcangelo Corelli’s first success took place in Paris, and from there his international reputation soared. He moved to Germany, where he was at the service of the Prince of Bavaria and spant much time with his friend Cristiano Farinelli. In 1865, Corelli moved to Rome. Here he headed festivities to celebrate the visit of the Queen of Sweden and became a firm favourite of Pope Alexandre VIII.

Corelli’s musical legacy spans from his style of playing the violin to his compositions. Corelli’s preference for not extending the tone of the violin, preferring to play the fuller, more buttery notes on the lower end of the scale.

 Musically. Corelli composed a total of 72 known oeuvres; 48 trio sonatas, 12 violin continuo sonatas and 12 concerti grossi. What most distinguishes his music is the flowing melody and the accompanying parts, which break the previously strict rules of counterpoint. In modern times, his concerti grossi, especially his Christmas concertos are the most appreciated and played.

Corelli influenced many exponents of contemporary chamber music, including Johann Sebastian Bach. Corelli died in Rome in 1713 and he’s buries in the Pantheon.

Written by: Valentina Zannoni