Giovanni Paisiello

Giovanni Paisiello, born in the small Italian town of Roccaforzata in 1740, was a titan of the Classical era, renowned as the most popular opera composer of the late 1700s. His operatic works, numbering over 80, not only captivated audiences across Europe but also left an indelible mark on the likes of Mozart and Rossini. Paisiello's journey took him from the prestigious Conservatorio di S. Onofrio in Naples to the opulent courts of Catherine the Great in St. Petersburg and Napoleon in Paris. Among his most celebrated works is "Il Barbiere di Siviglia," which, though overshadowed by Rossini's later version, remains a testament to his genius. Beyond his operatic prowess, Paisiello's contributions to church music and concert works further cement his legacy as one of the most influential composers of his time.