Girolamo Abos

Full biography Girolamo Abos

Girolamo Abos (1715-1760) was a Maltese-Italian composer of the Baroque era. He was born in Valletta, Malta, and was a member of the Cathedral of St. John, where he was a castrato singer and organist. Abos is best known for his sacred vocal music, including numerous masses, motets, and oratorios.

Abos received his musical training in Naples, Italy under the guidance of Nicola Porpora and Leonardo Leo. In the 1740s, he moved to Rome and composed music for the Teatro Capranica. Some of his most notable works from this time include the comic operas La Pazza per amore and La Finta Contessa, which were very popular.

In 1752, Abos moved to London, England, where he worked as a composer and conductor at the King's Theatre. During his time in England, he wrote operas in the Italian style, along with oratories and other sacred music. He was also appointed as the music director of the Antwerp Cathedral in Belgium, where he remained until his death in 1760.

Despite his relatively short life, Abos was a prolific composer, and his works have been performed and recorded by ensembles around the world. His music is characterized by its lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and graceful counterpoint. Abos' contributions to Baroque music have earned him a place among the most celebrated composers of the era.