Farinelli: The Legendary Castrato and His Timeless Legacy Artwork

The Classical Music Minute

Ever wonder who were the Florentine Camerata? Where did the conductor’s baton come from? Or the difference between Opera Buffa and Opera Seria? These little nuggets of classical music trivia are what this podcast is all about. Come hop around music history with me, Steven Hobé, as we take a minute to get the scoop!

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The Classical Music Minute

Farinelli: The Legendary Castrato and His Timeless Legacy

October 07, 2024 • Steven Hobé, Composer & Host • Season 1 • Episode 190

Description
Farinelli: The Legendary Castrato and His Timeless Legacy in 60 Seconds. Take a minute to get the scoop!

Fun Fact
A famous aria sung by Farinelli is "Alto Giove" from the opera *Polifemo* by Nicola Porpora. This aria, renowned for its beauty and serenity, allowed Farinelli to display his incredible vocal agility and emotional depth. His performance captivated audiences, leaving an enduring legacy in the Baroque opera world.
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About Steven, Host
Steven is a Canadian composer & actor living in Toronto. Through his music, he creates a range of works, with an emphasis on the short-form genre—his muse being to offer the listener both the darker and more satiric shades of human existence. If you're interested, please check out his music website for more. Member of the Canadian League Of Composers.
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Farinelli, born Carlo Maria Broschi in 1705, was one of the most famous and celebrated castrati singers of the 18th century. Castrated at a young age to preserve his high, ethereal voice, Farinelli trained under renowned composer Nicola Porpora and quickly rose to prominence in the opera world. His extraordinary vocal range, technical brilliance, and emotional depth captivated audiences across Europe.

Farinelli's career took him from Italy to the courts of Vienna, London, and Spain. In London, he was hailed as a musical sensation, drawing crowds to the opera houses with his dazzling performances. However, in 1737, at the peak of his fame, Farinelli left the public stage and accepted an invitation from King Philip V of Spain to become the court musician. For more than two decades, Farinelli sang nightly to soothe the ailing king, leaving behind his life of opera.

Farinelli retired to Italy in 1759 and lived there until his death in 1782, leaving a lasting legacy as one of history's greatest vocalists.