Pirro Albergati

Full biography Pirro Albergati

Pirro Albergati was an Italian composer of the late Renaissance period, born in Bologna in 1603. He was one of the most prolific composers of his time, known for his sacred music and operas. Not much is known about his early life, but it is believed that he and his family were associated with the court of Ferrara.

Albergati began his musical career as a singer in the chapel of San Petronio in Bologna. He later served as maestro di cappella at the Basilica of San Domenico in Bologna and at the court of the Este family in Modena. He also held positions in Mantua and Ferrara.

One of Albergati's most famous works is his opera "La Venere gelosa," which was first performed in Venice in 1632. The opera was well received and helped establish Albergati as a successful composer of opera. He went to compose several other operas throughout his career.

Albergati's other notable works include several collections of sacred music, including "Mottetti a voce sola" and "Lauda Jerusalem Dominum." His sacred music is characterized by its expressive melodies and sensitive use of harmony.

Throughout his career, Albergati maintained close ties with the Este family, and he dedicated many of his works to them. He died in Bologna in 1666, leaving behind a large body of work that cemented his place among the most important composers of the late Renaissance period.