Giovanni Benedetto Platti

Full biography Giovanni Benedetto Platti

Giovanni Benedetto Platti was a renowned composer and musician of the Baroque era. Born in Padua, Italy in 1697, Platti was raised in the city of Venice, where he learned to play the violin and the oboe. His musical talents were recognized early on, and he was soon appointed as the principal oboist at the Ducal Chapel in Venice.

Throughout his career, Platti composed numerous instrumental works, including sonatas, concertos, and chamber music. His music is known for its virtuosity, technical skill, and refined elegance, which are typical traits of the late Baroque style. Platti was also renowned for his abilities as an oboist, which allowed him to bring a unique insight into the performance of his own music.

In 1722, Platti left Venice and moved to the German city of Würzburg, where he served as a court musician for the Prince-Bishop of Würzburg. It was during his time in Würzburg that Platti began to compose his most significant works, including six concertos for harpsichord and strings, six sonatas for viola d'amore and basso continuo, and several trio sonatas.

Platti's music was highly valued during his lifetime, and he was regarded as one of the most important composers in Germany during the mid-18th century. However, his reputation waned in the decades following his death in 1763, and much of his music was forgotten. It wasn't until the 20th century that Platti's works began to be rediscovered and reevaluated by musicologists and performers.

Today, Platti's music is appreciated for its technical brilliance, melodiousness, and vivid expressiveness. As a composer and musician, Platti played a significant role in the development of the Baroque style, and his legacy continues to inspire and enchant musicians and listeners alike.