The Italian composer Evaristo Felice Dall'Abaco entered the world on 12 July 1675 in Verona, and his life concluded exactly sixty-seven years later in Munich. A multifaceted musician, he navigated the shifting political landscape of the Republic of Venice and the Bavarian court, leaving behind a body of instrumental music that highlights the technical demands of the Baroque era.
Formative Training and Early Career
Born to the guitarist Damiano dall'Abaco, the younger Evaristo pursued professional mastery in violin and cello. Evidence suggests he studied under Torelli, an influence that anchored his development within the traditions of Italian string music. His early professional path included a period in Modena, where he performed as a violinist alongside Tommaso Antonio Vitali.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Service to the Bavarian Court
In 1704, he secured a position as Kammermusiker for Maximilian II Emanuel, Elector of Bavaria. This tenure was quickly disrupted by the Battle of Blenheim. Following the Elector's defeat, Dall'Abaco accompanied the court into exile, spending time in Brussels, France, and the Netherlands. During this period of displacement, he gained exposure to diverse continental styles before returning to Munich in 1715. Upon this restoration, he was appointed Concert-meister, a post he held until his retirement in 1740.
Compositional Output
Dall'Abaco’s catalog features a distinct reliance on the models established by Vivaldi and Corelli. His output spans six opus numbers, emphasizing chamber music and concertos. Published works include Opus 1, comprising 12 Sonate da Camera for violin and cello, and Opus 2, consisting of 12 Concerti a quattro da Chiesa. He continued this formal structure through his later works, including Opus 3, Opus 4, and the final sets of Concerti a piu Instrumenti cataloged as Opus 5 and 6.
Fast facts
- Born: 12 July 1675, Verona
- Died: 12 July 1742, Munich
- Citizenship: Republic of Venice
- Occupations: Composer, violinist, cellist
- Notable Son: Joseph Abaco (1710–1805)
- Era: Baroque music
Questions readers ask
Who were the primary influences on Dall'Abaco's style?
His compositions show a clear debt to the musical styles of Vivaldi and Corelli.
How did the Battle of Blenheim impact his career?
The defeat of his patron, Maximilian II Emanuel, forced him into a long period of exile in Brussels, France, and the Netherlands before he could return to his duties in Munich.
Achievements
- Instruments: cello and violin
