Gioachino Rossini was one of the most influential figures of 19th-century opera, born in Pesaro, Italy, on February 29, 1792. A composer of effervescent spirit and superb dramatic insight, Rossini crafted a string of operatic triumphs that have enthralled audiences for over two centuries. Before retiring from opera composition at the relatively young age of 37, he had penned some 39 operas along with sacred music, chamber music, songs, and some instrumental and piano pieces.

Rossini's signature style merges crisp, lively melodies with impeccable comedic timing in operas like "Il barbiere di Siviglia" ("The Barber of Seville"), which remains a cornerstone of the operatic repertoire. His other major works include the operas "La Cenerentola," "L'italiana in Algeri," and "Guillaume Tell" ("William Tell"), the last of which boasts the famous overture familiar to many as the theme of “The Lone Ranger.” Despite his withdrawal from opera composition in the second half of his life, he continued to compose cantatas, sacred music, and secular vocal music—leaving behind a body of work that has secured his place as one of Italy's greatest and most enduring operatic maestros. Rossini’s influence can be felt not only in the world of opera but also in how his melodic inventiveness and rhythmic vitality helped shape the evolution of classical music as a whole.

Genres

Classical

Italian Opera

Italian Romanticism

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Latest Release

Rossini: Le comte Ory

Gioachino Rossini•

Vittorio Gui•

Glyndebourne Festival Orchestra

Album - 39 Tracks - Released August 23, 2024