The birthplace of opera, Italy is well known for its classical music. The piano and violin were invented in Italy, and the influence of Italian composers is notable, with their development of musical forms such as the symphony, concerto and sonata, establishing the foundation for centuries of musical development.
The home towns of each classical composer have a long musical heritage, and you can get a feel for the musical atmosphere of each town by visiting them on a walking holiday in Italy. Stroll through the streets as you learn about its musical mysteries, and if you’re lucky, you might get a chance to see some live performances.
Venice and Vivaldi
Antonio Lucio Vivaldi was born in Venice in 1678. During this time, opera was the most popular music form, inspiring much of Vivaldi’s bold works and resulting in his many operatic compositions. Walking in Italy, particularly in Venice, will allow you to see the grand Baroque architecture of the time to which this music belongs.
Vivaldi’s father, Giovanni Battista, taught him how to play the violin. Finding musical inspiration in walking in Italy, they toured together performing for locals. Walks in Italy will allow you to tread in their footsteps, as you make your way around this musical country.
Scarlatti’s Operas in Palermo
Scarlatti was born in 1660, in Palermo. Walking in Italy is particularly beautiful in the south, where Palermo lies. Scarlatti’s musical influence extends from the south to Rome, where he studied under Giacomo Carissimi. Rome is one of the best cities for a walking holiday in Italy, and a stop in this city will not only give you insight into Scarlatti’s music, but also into its ancient history.
Scarlatti’s sister was an opera singer, and he composed many operas inspired by her singing. Some of his finest works were produced at the Teatro Capranica in Rome, one of the city’s most famous opera houses. On a walking holiday in Italy, visiting these musically noteworthy sites is a must.
Touring Genoa and Parma with Paganini
Niccolo Paganini was born in Genoa in 1782. He is known as a pillar of modern violin technique, with his Caprice in A minor being inspirational to many composers. Listening to the country’s music when walking in Italy will give you some indication of Paganini’s influence on its musical development.
Growing up, Paganini sought musical guidance from Paer and Ghiretti in Genoa. He then spent many years touring through the area, performing frequently and gaining local support. But it was not until 1813 that he began to receive recognition across Europe. His concert at La Scala in Milan was hugely successful, spreading his name across the continent. Walks in Italy can lead you in this composer’s footsteps, from Genoa and Parma to the exciting city of Milan.
Verdi’s Opera’s in Busseto
Giuseppe Fortunino Francesco Verdi was born in 1813 in Le Roncole, a small village just outside of Busseto. Known primarily for his operas, Verdi’s works have had great influence all over the world. Hum the tune of ‘La donna e mobile’ on a walking holiday in Italy, as you wander through the towns and footpaths once trodden by this great composer.
Later in his life, Verdi moved to Milan, a musical centre at the time. His operas are still performed all over Europe today, and are pillars of excellence for classical operatic composition. When walking in Italy, you could enjoy an evening of opera at one of the many theatres performing Verdi’s works.
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