Gaetano Valeri

After receiving musical instruction from Turini Valeri became the organist at S. Maria del Carmine and S. Agostino. In 1785 he became the organist for Padua Cathedral and in 1805 the master of the chapel. The piano works and reputation of Valeri reveal that he was an exceptional pianist. Sacred vocal works were scored for both mixed and men's choirs reflecting the decrease in the use of castratos. When he scored accompaniments for these works he made arrangements for orchestras, small wind ensembles as well as organ music set on two staves. Valeri's organ music employed the use of the complete melodic range and several works were published and reprinted during his lifetime. Though the libretto for his "Il trionfo di Alessandro sopra se stesso" is lost it was known to have detailed instructions on time expenditures concurring phrases and distinct stage directions for the actresses and actors as well. ~ Keith Johnson