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Antonio Vivaldi
Antonio Lucio Vivaldi, born on March 4, 1678, in Venice, was an eminent Italian composer and violinist of the Baroque era. Known for his profound influence on the form of the concerto and Baroque instrumental music, Vivaldi was ordained as a Roman Catholic priest in 1703 but soon ceased to celebrate mass due to health issues, believed to be bronchial asthma. His distinctive red hair earned him the nickname "Il Prete Rosso" or "The Red Priest."

Vivaldi's musical journey began under the tutelage of his father, Giovanni Battista, a professional violinist. He made his first public appearance as a violinist in 1696 and was appointed violin master at the Ospedale della Pietà in Venice in 1703. The Pietà was a home for foundlings, where Vivaldi composed many of his works for its all-female ensemble. His compositions during this period include his influential set of violin concerti, "L’estro armonico," published in 1711.

Throughout his career, Vivaldi composed a vast array of instrumental concertos, sacred choral works, and more than fifty operas. His most renowned work, "The Four Seasons," was composed during his tenure in Mantua between 1717 and 1721. Vivaldi also enjoyed success as an opera impresario, staging works in Venice, Mantua, and Vienna.

Despite his early fame, Vivaldi's later years were marked by financial difficulties. After moving to Vienna, hoping for patronage from Emperor Charles VI, he died in poverty on July 28, 1741. His music underwent a revival in the early 20th century, leading to renewed appreciation and performance of his works worldwide. Vivaldi's legacy endures as one of the greatest Baroque composers, with his innovative approaches to orchestration and violin technique continuing to influence musicians today.

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