Amilcare Ponchielli was born on August 31, 1834, in Paderno Fasolaro, Lombardy–Venetia, near Cremona, Italy. He displayed musical talent early in life, earning a scholarship to the Milan Conservatory at the age of nine. There, he studied under Felice Frase and Alberto Mazzucato, composing his first symphony by age ten and a notable instrumental work, Scena campestre, during his studies.

Ponchielli's career began with challenges, as his early operas did not achieve success. However, his revised opera "I promessi sposi" in 1872 marked a turning point, leading to a contract with the music publisher G. Ricordi & Co. His most famous opera, "La Gioconda," premiered in 1876, featuring the well-known ballet "Dance of the Hours." Despite his initial struggles, Ponchielli's work eventually influenced future composers like Giacomo Puccini and Pietro Mascagni, with whom he was associated at the Milan Conservatory.

Throughout his career, Ponchielli composed ten operas, numerous choral works, and instrumental pieces. He served as a bandmaster, organist, and conductor in various Italian cities and was later appointed music director at Bergamo Cathedral. Ponchielli passed away on January 16, 1886, in Milan, Italy. His legacy endures, particularly through "La Gioconda," which remains a part of the operatic repertoire.