February 1st: Alessandro Marcello
Alessandro Marcello 1 February 1673 – 19 June 1747
Oboe Concerto in C minor
By Unknown author – http://www.portraitindex.de/documents/obj/33804341, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37839609
Alessandro Ignazio Marcello (1 February 1673 – 19 June 1747) was an Italian nobleman and composer known for his contributions to Baroque music. Born in Venice, he was the son of a senator and enjoyed a privileged upbringing that allowed him to explore music. Marcello held concerts and composed various works, including concertos, cantatas, and violin sonatas. His notable collection, La Cetra, showcases his talent. He often used the pseudonym Eterio Stinfalico while being part of the Arcadian Academy. Marcello passed away in Venice and was buried near Padua. His family faced challenges, particularly Rosanna Scalfi, who sought financial support from Marcello due to legal issues regarding her marriage to his brother. Although many of Marcello’s works are rarely performed today, he is still regarded as a skilled composer. His Concerto for Oboe and Strings in D minor is well-known and was transcribed by Johann Sebastian Bach. Marcello’s music reflects the characteristics of the Baroque style, including counterpoint and the use of wind instruments.
