Life
Trained at the beginning of the Arcadian period, his long career led him to reach full maturity in an era of great stylistic richness, in which Arcadian solidity merged with Rococo elegance and the new ideas of the Enlightenment.
Born in Bologna around 1690, Brescianello trained as a violinist and soon distinguished himself for his technical skill and musical sensitivity. His career took place primarily in Stuttgart, where he obtained prestigious appointments.
Aneddoto
The master at court
His appointment as maestro di cappella in Stuttgart was greeted with great enthusiasm by the orchestra, who recognized in him a respected and esteemed leader.Works
Brescianello composed several theatrical works, including Tisbe, performed in Munich in 1718. His sacred music includes masses and motets intended for the ducal chapel.
Among his instrumental works, the collection Concerti e Sinfonie op. 1 (Amsterdam, 1727) stands out, showing refined writing and particular attention to the dialogue between instruments.
He also wrote orchestral suites, symphonies, and numerous chamber pieces, helping to spread Italian taste in Central Europe.
Briciole di storia
The vices of the Italians
In the middle of the 18th century, Pietro Calepio wrote a Letter on Italian Customs which was translated into French and published in 1728 in the prestigious Bibliothèque Italique. In this text, which became very well known, Calepio did not limit himself to describing Italy in general but clearly and sincerely denounced various vices of Italian society. Among his harshest criticisms was the poor functioning of educational institutions and, in particular, the idleness in which most of the nobility lived, considered the cause of their dissoluteness. He also denounced the low consideration given to the female role.
Pubblico dominio (Commons)
