Antonio Vivaldi – the famous Venetian composer and violinist of the Baroque period – was born on March 4, 1678 in Venice. However, he died in Vienna – on July 28, 1741 and only around ten months after his arrival.
Vivaldi in Vienna: short career and quick death
In 1741, Vivaldi stayed at the Hotel Sacher at Philharmonikerstrasse 4. He lived and worked here – but not even for a year. There were financial and economic reasons why he came to Vienna shortly before the end of his life. From Austria he had secured a late appointment at the court of Emperor Charles VI. hoped.
But the emperor was dead – and the dream shattered. So he had to eke out an existence impoverished and alone. Just ten months after his arrival in Austria, the famous composer, virtuoso and teacher finally died – of fever. He was buried in a simple grave on the Spitller Gottsacker in front of the Kärntnertor.
Antonio Vivaldi Masterpieces
The priest, who was actually ordained in 1703, composed 50 operas, 344 solo concerts, over 20 chamber concerts and as many violin concertos and oratorios over the course of his eventful artistic life. His most famous cycle is “The Seasons”.
Late honors for Vivaldi: A memorial plaque commemorates him in the main building of the Technical University that is located there today. In 1972, Vivaldigasse in the 10th district (Vienna-Favoriten) was named after him.
