Giovanni Battista Pergolesi

Giovanni Battista Pergolesi, born in the picturesque town of Iesi, Italy, in 1710, was a prodigious composer, violinist, and organist whose brief yet impactful career left an indelible mark on the Baroque era. Despite his tragically short life, ending at just 26 years old in 1736, Pergolesi's compositions continue to resonate with audiences and musicians alike. His most celebrated works, the comic opera "La serva padrona" and the deeply moving "Stabat Mater," showcase his versatility and mastery of both secular and sacred music. Pergolesi's influence extended far beyond Italy, playing a significant role in the Querelle des Bouffons, a musical debate that swept through Europe. His compositions, characterized by their emotional depth and technical brilliance, continue to inspire and captivate, securing his place as one of the greatest Italian musicians of the 18th century.