Antonio Vivaldi

Antonio Lucio Vivaldi was born to Giovanni Battista Vivaldi and Camilla Calicchio in Venice, Italy. His father, a professional violinist, began teaching him to play at a young age.

Vivaldi begins his formal musical education, studying under some of the leading musicians of the time in Venice. His father continues to influence his musical development.

Vivaldi is ordained as a Catholic priest, earning the nickname 'Il Prete Rosso' (The Red Priest) due to his red hair. However, he soon stops performing mass due to health issues.

Vivaldi is appointed as the violin master at the Ospedale della Pietà, a home for orphaned and abandoned girls in Venice. He composes and teaches music to the girls, significantly impacting their musical education.

Vivaldi's first collection of compositions, 'Opus 1,' a set of 12 sonatas for two violins and basso continuo, is published in Venice. This marks the beginning of his public recognition as a composer.

Vivaldi composes 'La Stravaganza' Opus 4, a set of 12 concertos for solo violin and string orchestra, which showcases his innovative and virtuosic style.

Vivaldi is appointed as the maestro di cappella at the chapel of S. Giovanni in Oleo, a position that allows him to compose and perform a wide range of sacred and secular music.

Vivaldi publishes 'The Four Seasons,' a set of four violin concertos that are among his most famous works. Each concerto is accompanied by sonnets, possibly written by Vivaldi himself, that describe the scenes being depicted.

Vivaldi travels to Vienna, where he continues to compose and perform. He enjoys the patronage of Emperor Charles VI, who commissions several works from him.

Antonio Vivaldi dies in Vienna, Austria, after a period of declining health and financial difficulties. He is buried in a simple grave at the Hospital Burial Ground.