Giovanni Battista Sammartini Italian composer of the pre-classical era, one of the creators of the early symphonic style Country: Italy

Biography of Giovanni Sammartini

Giovanni Sammartini was an Italian composer, organist, choir master, and educator. He was born in 1701 in Milan. Sammartini served as an organist in several Milanese churches. From 1730 to 1770, he was the music director at the Monastery of Santa Maria Maddalena. Between 1737 and 1741, he took lessons from the renowned Austrian composer C.F. Gluck.

Sammartini was known for his prolific output, especially in instrumental genres. He was one of the main representatives of the gallant style, which bridged the gap between the Baroque and classical periods. It is possible that Sammartini's symphonies (known as pre-classical symphonies) had some influence on Haydn and Mozart, although Haydn himself denied such influence.

In addition to operas, masses, symphonies, numerous string quartets and quintets, Sammartini left behind a legacy of around 200 trio sonatas. He passed away in Milan on January 15, 1775. His older brother, Giuseppe, was a renowned oboist and composer, and he spent a significant portion of his professional life in London.