Antonio Caldara

Caldara was born in Venice (exact date unknown), the son of a violinist. He became a chorister at St Mark's Cathedral, where he learned several instruments, probably under the instruction of Giovanni Legrenzi. In 1699 he relocated to Mantua, where he became maestro di cappella to the Duke. He remained there until 1707, then moved on to Rome, becoming maestro di cappella to Prince Ruspoli. In 1716, he obtained a similar post in Vienna, where he remained until his death.

Caldara is best known as a composer of operas and oratorios. Several of his works have libretti by Metastasio.

List of works