Chiara Margarita Cozzolani

Full biography Chiara Margarita Cozzolani

Chiara Margarita Cozzolani was an Italian singer and composer of the Baroque era, born on November 27, 1602, in Milan. Cozzolani entered the Santa Radegonda convent of the Augustinian order at a young age and was trained by its musicians.

During her lifetime, Cozzolani was known for her beautiful voice and her ability to compose intricate, harmonious music. She was well-respected by her contemporaries, including Claudio Monteverdi, who praised her music in a letter.

Cozzolani was a prolific composer, and her music includes several collections of motets and psalm settings. Her compositions were noted for their musical complexity, and her use of dissonances was daring for the time.

Her music was performed throughout Milan and beyond, and the Santa Radegonda choir performed her pieces in public concerts that drew large crowds. Cozzolani's music was considered a great asset to the church and contributed greatly to the development of sacred music.

Despite her success as a composer, little is known about Cozzolani's personal life outside of her music. She remained a member of the Santa Radegonda convent until her death in 1678.

In recent years, Cozzolani's music has experienced a revival. Her Motetti a otto voci, Op. 2 and Psalms have been recorded by various artists, bringing attention to her unique contributions to Baroque choral music. Cozzolani remains an important figure in the history of music and a testament to the enduring creative spirit of women composers.