Ferrari, Carlotta (1837–1907)

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Ferrari, Carlotta (1837–1907)

Italian pianist, poet, singer, and writer who was in great demand as a composer of operas and cantatas. Born in Lodia on January 27, 1837; died in Bologna on November 23, 1907.

When Carlotta Ferrari completed her first opera, Ugo, at age 20, she had to pay the entire expense of presenting it; no one would showcase an opera written by a woman. The performance was a success, however, and her work was soon in great demand. Ferrari studied piano and voice under Strepponi and Panzini, and composition under Mazzucato at the Milan Conservatory. Her strong grounding in music as well as her great talent made her much in demand. The Turin government commissioned her to write a cantata as well as a Requiem mass for the anniversary of the death of King Charles Albert. Considered one of the great masters of the canon form, Ferrari was extremely respected in the musical world. Her poetry was also highly regarded.

John Haag , Athens, Georgia

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