Pietro Alessandro Guglielmi

Full biography Pietro Alessandro Guglielmi

Pietro Alessandro Guglielmi was an Italian composer, born in Massa di Carrara on December 9, 1728. He was considered as one of the most prominent composers of the 18th century. He grew up in Naples, where he studied music with Francesco Durante. In 1754, he moved to Rome, where he worked as a freelance musician, composing operas, and sacred music.

Guglielmi's works were famous for their elegance, simplicity, and emotional depth. His talent as a composer was recognized by his contemporaries, including Mozart, who modeled some of his works on Guglielmi's style. Some of his popular compositions include "Lo sposo di tre e marito di nessuna," "L'isola del piacere," and "Il convito," among others.

In the 1770s, Guglielmi moved to Madrid, where he became the court composer for King Carlos III. During this period, he composed the famous "La Serva Padrona," which became one of the most performed operas of the 18th century. In recognition of his services to the Spanish court, he was awarded the title of Maestro di Capella.

Pietro Alessandro Guglielmi died in Madrid in 1804 due to natural causes. He was a versatile composer who worked on both secular and religious music, creating a legacy that would inspire generations of composers to come. His compositions are still popular today, and his contributions to the music of the 18th century are considered invaluable.