Born:
February 14, 1602; his father was Gian Battista Caletti-Bruni.
Birthplace:
Crema in Venice, Italy
Died:
January 14, 1676 in Venice
Also Known As:
His real name was Pier Francesco Caletti-Bruni, but he adapted the name of his patron Federico Cavalli. He was one of the most influential Italian opera composers during the 17th century.
Type of Compositions:
He composed more than 40 Italian operas.
Influence:
In 1617, Cavalli was a choir singer in St. Mark, Venice, under the composer Claudio Monteverdi. He became an organist there and in 1668, became maestro di cappella.
Notable Works:
Among his famous works are: "Didone" (1641), "Egisto" (1646), "Erismena" and "L'Ormindo."
Interesting Facts:
Most of Cavalli's works were written for small string orchestras and meant to be performed in public opera houses; this is what distinguishes his works from the early works of Claudio Monteverdi.
Music Sheet:
Music sheet of Francesco Cavalli's Ombra Mai Fu.