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Emilio CavalieriItalian composer
Country:
 Italy |
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Biography of Emilio Cavalieri
Emilio Cavalieri was an Italian composer and is known for being the author of the first oratorio, "La Rappresentazione di anima e di corpo" (The Representation of Soul and Body) in 1600. He was one of the first composers to systematically use the basso continuo in his music.
Early Life and Education
Emilio was born in Rome into an aristocratic and musical family. He was the son of Tommaso de Cavalieri, a close friend of Michelangelo. Emilio received his initial musical education in his family's home in Rome.
Career
From 1578 to 1584, Emilio worked as an organist and music director. He spent most of his life in Rome, where he created his oratorios under the patronage of Cardinal Ferdinando de' Medici.
In 1587, Ferdinando de' Medici was granted the title of Grand Duke of Tuscany, previously held by his brother, and in 1588, he brought Emilio to Florence. Here, Cavalieri collaborated with Count Giovanni de' Bardi and became a renowned master of organizing solemn ceremonies and events for the Medici family. In the 1590s, Cavalieri composed several pastorals.
During this period, Cavalieri also had an interest in politics. As a diplomat, he purchased votes from key cardinals in papal elections and contributed to the elections of Pope Innocent IX and Pope Clement VIII, who were favorable towards the Medici. His frequent diplomatic trips to Rome did not hinder his creative activities. In February 1600, he presented his famous work, "La Rappresentazione di anima e di corpo," the first oratorio, to the public.
In 1600, in Florence, Cavalieri was involved in the production of "Euridice," one of the first Italian operas composed by Jacopo Peri (libretto by Ottavio Rinuccini). The production was part of carefully planned celebrations in honor of the marriage of Henry IV and Marie de' Medici. Much to Cavalieri's disappointment, he was unable to participate in the staging of the main culminating event, the opera "Il rapimento di Cefalo" (The Abduction of Cephalus), which was eventually directed by his rival Giulio Caccini. In anger, Cavalieri left Florence with the intention never to return.
