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A review and study of baroque and classical music would not be complete without including Antonio Vivaldi. Born in Venice in 1678, Vivaldi had an expansive life as a composer and artist. His works are well-known today with one of his most popular compositions, "Four Seasons", to his credit.

Vivaldi began his musical interest early in life by playing the violin, taking after his father who was a violinist. He later fulfilled the expectations of his era and became a priest, but he always stayed true to his passion of music that always included playing the violin. He was known as "the red priest" because of his fiery, red hair and exuberance for life.

His legacy as a master composer and musician were interrupted by his services as an educator for orphaned, illegitimate, and indigent young girls. He took time out from his pursuit of a musical career to deliver support and solace to these young women.

However, his desire to be a musician was always part of his life and soul. Leaving the priesthood and teaching behind, he embarked on an incredible journey into the world of classical music and left his impressions on the world. He has been credited with composing over 500 concertos, not including additional works he created for the theater.

Vivaldi's life was cut short in 1741 when he died while pursuing his dreams in Vienna. Because his works had not been recognized as the masterpieces we hold in high esteem today, he only received a modest burial with no fanfare or recognition. Most of his works were buried in history and largely forgotten until the early 20th century as classical music experienced a revival.

Vivaldi will always be hailed among the great composers of classical music. His command of music will be forever remembered through the use of his repetitive phrases and his innate ability to create exhilarating and climactic musical compositions with an incredible cumulative effect. He never failed to evoke passion and emotion through his work and that was his gift to the world.

Vivaldi's greatest and most famous legacy is the "Four Seasons", which reflects his style and creative talent in a way that has been unmatched by other composers. A minute spent listening to the works of Vivaldi, one of the greatest composers in history, will delight and enlighten even the most cynical critic.

His works and his legacy will entertain, tantalize, and live on forever.

Learn more about this author, Rhonda Day.
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