Profile of Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

Born:

Uncertain, probably between February 3, 1525 to February 1 1526

Birthplace:

Palestrina, Italy

Died:

February 2, 1594 in Rome

Also known as:

The greatest composer of liturgical music, "Prince of Music", Saviour of Church Music and nicknamed Il Prenestino.

Type of Compositions:

Secular, liturgical and religious music.

Musical Work:

Among his compositions are at least 140 madrigals, 104 masses, 68 offertories, 45 hymns, psalms, 250 motets, 4 or 5 sets of lamentations, 33 magnificats and litanies. One of his considered masterpiece is called the Missa Papae Marcelli.

Interesting Fact:

When Pierluigi was young, he peddled products from his parent's farm while singing. The choirmaster of Santa Maria Maggiore heard him singing on the streets of Rome and was impressed by the young boy's voice that he decided to train him musically.