Mateo Albéniz facts for kids
Mateo Albéniz, also known as Mateo Antonio Pérez de Albéniz (born around 1755 – died June 23, 1831), was a Spanish composer, music expert, and priest. He is not related to the famous composer Isaac Albéniz. However, he was the father of another musician, Pedro Albéniz. Some older books mistakenly called him Pedro Albéniz and said he died in 1821.
Early Life and Career
Mateo Albéniz was born in the Basque Country, a region in Spain. He became a `Maestro de Capilla`, which means he was in charge of music at a church or chapel. He worked in this role in San Sebastián and Logroño from 1795 to 1800.
After 1800, he returned to San Sebastián. He continued his work there until he retired in 1829. He passed away in San Sebastián in 1831.
His Music and Works
Mateo Albéniz wrote many pieces of music for the church. These included masses, vespers (evening prayers), and motets (choral pieces). Most of his church music was never officially published.
He also wrote a book of solfeggi in 1800. Solfeggi are exercises used to teach singing and music reading.
Albéniz composed music for keyboard instruments like the harpsichord and the fortepiano. The fortepiano was an early version of what we now call the piano.
Today, Mateo Albéniz is most famous for his Sonata in D major. This piece is very popular, especially a version that has been arranged for the guitar.
