Cristofano Malvezzi facts for kids

Cristofano Malvezzi was an Italian organist and composer who lived during the late Renaissance period. He was born in 1547 and died in 1599. Malvezzi was one of the most famous musicians in Florence at a time when music was starting to change and move towards the Baroque style.

Life in Florence

Cristofano Malvezzi was born in Lucca, Italy. From 1551, he lived in Florence and worked for the powerful Medici family starting in 1562. He held several jobs as an organist in the city's churches. He also taught music to students, including Jacopo Peri, who is often called the inventor of opera.

In 1573, Malvezzi became the maestro di cappella (which means "master of the chapel") at the main cathedral and at S Giovanni Battista. This was the most important job a musician could have in Florence.

His Music and the Florentine Camerata

Malvezzi wrote many different kinds of music. He composed three books of madrigals, which are songs for several voices without instruments. He also wrote a book of ricercars, which are pieces for instruments. It's interesting that he only wrote two sacred (religious) songs, even though he worked closely with the church.

Because of his work in Florence and the many intermedi he wrote for the Medici family and other rich people, it's very likely he was part of the Florentine Camerata. This was a group of musicians and poets who wanted to bring back the style of ancient Greek music. In doing so, they accidentally created a new style called monody (music for a single voice with simple accompaniment), which eventually led to the first operas.

Malvezzi composed much of the music for the famous "La Pellegrina intermedi" in 1589. These were special musical shows designed by the Camerata. One of his most impressive pieces was "O fortunato giorno." He wrote it for a grand intermedio at a fancy wedding. This piece was huge, with thirty separate singing parts divided among seven groups of singers placed in different parts of the room! Some of his madrigals were also written in the monody style, which further suggests his connection to the Camerata.

Family

Cristofano Malvezzi's brother, Alberigo (who lived from about 1550 to 1615), was also an organist and composer.