Antonio Salieri was a prominent Italian classical composer, conductor, and teacher born on August 18, 1750, in Legnago, Veneto, in the Republic of Venice. His musical journey began under the guidance of his older brother Francesco and later composer Florian Leopold Gassmann after moving to Vienna, where he spent much of his life. Salieri became one of the most influential figures in the late 18th-century Viennese musical scene, working closely with the Habsburg court and holding prestigious positions such as court composer and Kapellmeister.

Despite the dramatized myth of intense rivalry with Mozart, largely inflamed by the fictional play and film "Amadeus," historical evidence suggests they held mutual respect and may have even collaborated on occasion. Salieri's contributions to opera were particularly significant, with masterpieces such as "Armida," "La scuola de' gelosi," and "Les Danaïdes" achieving great success in his time. As a prolific composer, his oeuvre encompasses a variety of genres, including operas, symphonies, concertos, chamber music, and sacred pieces like the "Mass at Organ in D major." His music fell into relative obscurity following his death on May 7, 1825, but has been enjoying a revival in recent years, with modern recordings and performances highlighting Salieri's elegant and expressive style.

Genres

Classical

Classical Era

Galante Era

Italian Romanticism

Latest Release

Salieri: Le Sommeil des Enfants

Antonio Salieri

Album - 8 Tracks - Released May 18, 2021