Taglioni, Ferdinando

1810-

Composer and teacher; son of Salvatore Taglioni, a famous ballet-master; was born at Naples. He went to Lucca, where he studied piano with Massimiliano Giulici and harmony and counterpoint with Dominico Giulici; then returned to Naples in 1828, and became the pupil of Count Gallenberg and of Raimondi. For a while he taught singing, forming many distinguished pupils, until in 1842 he became maestro di cappella of the Reale Santa Casa of Lanziano and of the local theatre. After seven years in this position he returned to Naples as concertmaster of the San Carlo Theatre, a position which he held until he was obliged to flee from Naples for some political crime. On receiving pardon he returned, and became editor of the Gazzetta Musicale, and in 1856 he introduced historical classic concerts into Italy. He gave instruction in choral singing and in 1865 founded a school. In recognition of his services he was made member of several academies and decorated with the orders of St. Maurice and Lazare. He wrote two operas, I due mariti, and II Gualderano; two misereres with orchestra; a Te Deum with orchestra; an oratorio, Maria; and other church compositions. He also wrote biographical and critical articles and several pamphlets on vocal instruction.