Francesco Soriano

Full biography Francesco Soriano

Francesco Soriano was a prominent Italian composer from the late Renaissance period. He was born in Naples around the year 1548 and spent much of his career working in the city's thriving music scene. Soriano was known for his extensive knowledge of counterpoint and his skill in writing vocal music.

Soriano began his professional life as a singer in the chapel of the archbishop of Naples before eventually moving on to compose music himself. His works were widely performed in Naples and other Italian cities throughout the late 16th century. He is best known for his madrigals, which were written in the highly expressive and emotional style that dominated Italian music at the time.

In addition to his work as a composer, Soriano was also a respected music educator. He wrote a treatise on sacred music titled "Musica sacrae concentus" which was widely used in music schools across Italy during the Renaissance.

Despite his considerable talents, Soriano's music fell out of favor in later centuries and was largely forgotten. It wasn't until the 20th century that his work began to be rediscovered and celebrated by musicologists and performers.

Today, Soriano's music is recognized as an important example of the rich and diverse musical culture of the Italian Renaissance. His works are still performed and recorded by musicians around the world, ensuring that his legacy continues to live on.