Great Composers: Vivaldi Trivia Quiz

Answer: Antonio

Born in Venice, Vivaldi was given the fine Italian name of Antonio. Wolfgang was Mozart's given name, Bach's was Johann, and Ludwig was Beethoven's first name.

Answer: musical director

In 1703, he became a priest; however, the cardinal excused him from giving mass, due to his health. Shortly thereafter Vivaldi became appointed as music director for 40 years at a school for homeless girls. He purchased the musical instruments, saw to these instruments being in working order, and had to compose whatever music was necessary.

He also played the violin and organ while employed as musical director.

Answer: asthma

It is written in several accounts that Vivaldi was conducting mass and had to leave due to an asthma attack. The cardinal then excused Vivaldi from having to say mass because of this affliction. Being relieved of his priestly duties gave Vivaldi the need to look for other employment, which is how he became a musical director.

Answer: 1678

Vivaldi's beginnings are somewhat sketchy. It is known that his father was a baker, and thought to be a virtuoso on the violin. As for siblings, Vivaldi's two brothers had gotten into trouble with the law. So it appears Vivaldi did not come from high society, but did well for himself regardless of his family background.

Answer: Bach

Vivaldi, though popular at one time, died in obscurity in Vienna. Some scholars were going through old manuscripts and discovered that Bach had transcribed several pieces from Vivaldi. Bach they knew, but who was Vivaldi? Fortunately, research was done, which resulted in bringing Vivaldi up from the tombs of obscurity.

Answer: violin

Vivaldi was indeed an accomplished violinist. At the height of his popularity it is said he was summoned by the Pope for a private audience.

Answer: 1741

Like Mozart, Vivaldi died in poverty, in an unmarked grave. Both composers were similar in how they achieved greatness in their composition and popularity, yet failed to secure financial greatness.

Answer: 500

Vivaldi was a profilic composer, and wrote about 500 concerti. He also wrote operas and sacred music.

Answer: baroque

Vivaldi exerted a great influence upon what is known as the baroque period of music. He accomplished a lightness to his compositions that had previously been unheard before; "The Four Seasons" is the result of his "fast-slow-fast" style of composition.

Answer: Red Priest

Vivaldi was given the name of "Il Prete Rosso", which means "The Red Priest". This was due undoubtedly to his red hair, and his earlier position as a priest.