Image by mitch98000 via Flickr
The violin bows tease their strings, filling the air with an aural tension, a frigid, musical bridge that makes way for one bow, which suddenly breaks from the others and dances with furious energy on strings. Who could have created a violin concerto that so masterfully mimics the tumult of winter? Antonio Vivaldo, naturally.
The Violin Master
Vivaldi was born in Venice, the son of a barber turned violinist who toured Italy with young Antonio in tow. By age 25, Vivaldi had become a maestro di violin (master of violin), and became highly regarded for his astounding skill. Although he studied to become a priest and was ultimately ordained, picking up the nickname the Red Priest for his striking hair, Vivaldi never pursued religion professionally; he taught at an orphanage and honing his immense musical talent.
The Four Seasons
In the years that followed, Vivaldi became an accomplished composer, and in 1723 composed his most famous work: The Four Seasons. Comprised of four violin concertos, each based on a sonnet and representing a season, The Four Seasons was considered revolutionary in its time for being inspired by nature. Although the popularity of The Four Seasons dwindled, it now rests steadfastly amongst classical masterpieces.
The Violinist’s Legacy
Antonio Vivaldi was a prolific musical author, in his lifetime composing at least 500 concertos and 46 operas. Sadly, Vivaldi’s death was not nearly as graceful as the works he composed: he died penniless at age 63 of an infection. However, Vivaldi’s beautiful creations lived on; as inspiration for Haydn and Bach, and for countless music lovers who thrill with every stroke of a violinist’s bow.
