Vivaldi, Antonio

1678-1741

Antonio Vivaldi (nicknamed il Prete Rosso or The Red Priest) was an Venetian composer, priest and famous virtuoso violinist of the Baroque period.

He was the most important Italian composer of his generation, and he laid the foundatons for the mature Baroque concerto.

He made substantial contributions to musical style, violin technique and orchestration.

He was also a pioneer of orchestral programme music.

His compositions include over 500 instrumental concertos, sacred choral works and over 40 operas.