Francesco Mancini

Biography

Francesco Mancini (16 January 1672 – 22 September 1737) was a Neapolitan composer of considerable notoriety during his time as a prolific member of the Neapolitan School, and aided in the establishment of a local practice there. His contribution to the development of Italian opera, a particularly intrinsic aspect of the Neapolitan School as a whole, is especially lauded, as well as his writings of sacred works and cantatas. His name can be found in historical sources being lauded with other members like Nicola Porpora, Alessandro Scarlatti, and Giovanni Battista Pergolesi.

Career

He was an important teacher and managed to obtain his greatest duty during Alessandro Scarlatti's absence from the Neapolitan court, between 1702 and 1708. In this period, he was Director of the Conservatorio di S Maria di Loreto from his predecessor Giuliano Perugino, composing the opera, Il zelo animato there (1733), as well as being first organist and maestro of the Capella Reale. This time has been segmented by scholars into two parts: his opera phase (1707-1713) and his sacred music phase (1716-1720). His assistant while as Reale was Giuseppe Porsile. In 1735, Mancini was forced to conclude his participation at the Conservatory due to issues with his well-being, the substitute in his absence being Giovanni Fischietti.

Recordings

Missa Septimus SSATB [25'46"]. Currende, cond. Erik Van Nevel. KTC4031