Giovanni Battista Riccio

Full biography Giovanni Battista Riccio

Giovanni Battista Riccio, also known as Giovan Battista Riccio, was a prominent Italian composer of the Renaissance era. He was born around 1490 in Verona, Italy, and lived through the first half of the 16th century.

Riccio's early life and training are not well-documented, but it is believed that he received his education at the Cathedral of Verona. He then embarked on a career as a church musician, serving as a choirmaster and organist in several churches and cathedrals throughout Italy.

Riccio's works were highly regarded in his day, and he was known for his mastery of polyphonic vocal music. He was particularly skilled at setting texts in a clear and expressive way, with each voice part weaving in and out of the harmonies in a richly textured and intricate manner.

Some of Riccio's most notable works include masses, motets, and madrigals. His music was published in several collections during his lifetime, including the famous "Venetian" anthologies of the 1560s and 1570s.

Today, Riccio is still remembered as a significant figure in the history of Western music. His works have been performed and recorded by many ensembles, and his contributions to the development of the Renaissance style continue to be studied and appreciated.