TOMASO ALBINONI (1740)

Composer whose operas and instrumental works achieved wide popularity and are distinguished by their urbanity and charm.


The son of a wealthy paper merchant, Albinoni enjoyed independent means. Although he was a fully trained musician and held a professional post as chamber musician to the duke of Mantua, he considered himself an amateur. Little is known of his life except for the production of his operas (48 in number), chiefly at Venice (1694-1740). Especially notable among his other works are the Sinfonie e Concerti a 5, Opus 2 (1707); the concerti for solo violin, Opus 5 (1710); and the concerti for one and two oboes in Opus 7 and Opus 9.