Vivaldi took the role of maestro di violino (master of violin) at the Ospedale della Pieta when he was only 25.

He would remain a priest only for a year, and was given dispensation in 1704 after only saying mass a few times due to his poor health. He was ordained at the age of 25 in 1703 and was soon given the nickname “The Red Priest” (referring to the color of his hair, which was a family trait). In 1693 at the age of 15, Vivaldi began studying to become a priest. This did not prevent him from playing the violin or taking part in musical activities, although it did stop him from playing wind instruments. He would frequently complain of “tightness of the chest”, which has been interpreted as some form of asthma. Although it is not confirmed, it is widely believed that Vivaldi’s father may have also been a composer as well.Īntonio’s health was problematic his entire life. Once Antonio was a skilled musician, his father traveled Venice with him and the two would perform together. Vivaldi had five siblings, and was taught the violin at an early age by his father who was a professional violinist himself. He is most widely known for his instrumentals concertos (mostly for violin), as well as sacred works and operas.Ī majority of his compositions were written for the female music ensemble at the Ospedale della Pieta, a home for abandoned children where Vivaldi was employed between 40. Born in Venice, Italy, he is undoubtedly one of the greatest Baroque composers.

An Italian Baroque composer, Antonio Vivaldi also spent portions of his life as a virtuoso violinist, teacher, and cleric.

Antonio vivaldi music