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SenesinoItalian castrato singer (contralto)
Date of Birth: 31.10.1686
Country:  Italy |
Content:
- A Life on Stage: The Eminent Castrato Senesino
- Early Career and Rise to Stardom
- Dresden and Encounter with Johann Quantz
- Joining Handel's Royal Academy of Music
- Collaboration and Conflict with Handel
- Later Career and Rivalry with Farinelli
- Final Years and Return to Siena
- Legacy and Death
A Life on Stage: The Eminent Castrato Senesino
Early Life and Vocal TrainingFrancesco Bernardi, known to the world by his stage name Senesino, was born in 1686 to a barber in the Italian city of Siena, Tuscany. His moniker, it is believed, was derived from the city's name. At the age of nine, the young Bernardi joined a church choir. Unusually late for a castrato, he underwent the procedure at age 13.
Early Career and Rise to Stardom
Senesino made his operatic debut in Venice in 1707. Over the next decade, his reputation as a vocalist soared throughout Europe. By 1717, when he performed in Antonio Lotti's "Giove in Argo" in Dresden, his fame and earnings had reached astronomical heights.
Dresden and Encounter with Johann Quantz
In 1719, Senesino's talent was witnessed firsthand by the composer Johann Quantz, who described his voice as "strong, clear, and pleasant with an irreproachable intonation." Quantz further praised his flawless technique, exceptional diction, and expressive performance style.
Joining Handel's Royal Academy of Music
After a dispute with the court composer Johann Heinichen, Senesino was dismissed from Dresden. In 1720, George Frideric Handel welcomed him as the lead singer of his Royal Academy of Music. Senesino's debut performance on December 28, 1720, was met with critical acclaim, and his salary was staggering for the time, ranging from £2,000 to £3,000 per season.
Collaboration and Conflict with Handel
Over the next decade and a half, Senesino performed in 17 leading roles in Handel's operas. However, their relationship was marked by frequent clashes. In 1728, the Royal Academy of Music collapsed, leading to Senesino's departure from Handel's company.
Later Career and Rivalry with Farinelli
Senesino continued to sing in Paris and Venice, but in 1730 he rejoined Handel, starring in four new operas. Yet, tensions between them persisted. In 1733, Senesino joined the rival "Opera of the Nobility," where he encountered the legendary castrato soprano Farinelli. Their performances together, particularly in the opera "Artaserse," sparked a famous incident where Senesino's character embraced Farinelli's in a moment of emotional reconciliation.
Final Years and Return to Siena
In 1736, Senesino left England for Italy, performing in Florence and Naples until 1740. By then, his singing style was considered outdated. Retiring from the stage, he returned to his birthplace in Siena, where he built an extravagant mansion adorned in an English style. Eccentric and reclusive in his later years, Senesino was plagued by family disputes, particularly with his nephew and heir, Giuseppe.
Legacy and Death
Francesco Bernardi, known to the world as Senesino, died in his mansion on November 27, 1758. He is remembered as one of the greatest castrati of all time, a legendary figure whose enduring legacy continues to inspire singers and music lovers alike.
