Spontini, Gaspare b. November 14, 1774 d. January 24, 1851 Composer, Conductor. A pioneer of early Romantic music, he played an influential role in the development of French Grand Opera. His masterpiece, "La Vestale" (1807), is still heard today. Gaspare Luigi Pacifico Spontini was born in Maiolati (now Maiolati Spontini), Italy. The son of peasants, he was provided with an early education by an uncle who hoped he would become a priest. Instead he studied music at the Naples Conservatory and saw his first opera, "Li puntigli delle donne" (1796)...[Read More] (Bio by: Robert Edwards) Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, Maiolati Spontin, Ancona, Provincia di Ancona, Marche, Italy
b. November 14, 1774 d. January 24, 1851