Domenico Cimarosa

Domenico Cimarosa was an Italian composer of the Classical period, born on 17 December 1749 in Aversa, near Naples. Singled out for his musical talent, he received his early education from the clergy of the Church of San Severo and later attended the Conservatorio di S Maria di Loreto in Naples. Cimarosa became known for his operas, particularly comedies, and composed more than eighty works, including 'Il matrimonio segreto' (1792). His career took him to various Italian cities and even to the court of Catherine the Great in Russia. He faced political turmoil in his late years, leading to imprisonment and exile. Cimarosa died on 11 January 1801 in Venice, after a prolific career that left a significant mark on the world of opera.