Muzio Clementi
From performance and composition to instrument-making, Clementi left his mark on British and European classical music.
1752-1832
King George III 1760-1820 to King William IV 1830-1837
From performance and composition to instrument-making, Clementi left his mark on British and European classical music.
1752-1832
King George III 1760-1820 to King William IV 1830-1837
Muzio Clementi (1752-1832) came from Rome to England as a boy, to become one of the most prolific of British composers, and an internationally respected teacher and performer. An able businessman, he also turned a bankrupt firm of London instrument-makers into a Europe-wide success.
PETER Beckford, on a visit to Rome in 1766, was so impressed with fourteen-year-old Muzio Clementi that he engaged him to play concerts at home in Dorset.
He also paid for his musical education, eight hours a day studying the music of Handel, Scarlatti and Bach. By 1780, Beckford’s protege was performing for Marie Antoinette in Paris.
The following year, Clementi shared a stage with Mozart, on whom he showered gracious praise. Mozart was less kind. But Beethoven was a lifelong admirer, recognising that Clementi set new standards for technique and emotional expression.
Back in London, Clementi set up in business as a piano-maker and music publisher, and coached pupils including John Baptist Cramer, Ignaz Moscheles and John Field.
Even in the age of Haydn and Beethoven, as a composer Clementi won respect; but as a popular conductor, celebrity teacher and astute businessman he became a London institution. Following his death on 10th March, 1832, he was honoured with burial in Westminster Abbey.
Suggest answers to this question. See if you can limit one answer to exactly seven words.
How did Clementi come to live in England?
He was offered free music lessons here.
Express the ideas below in a single sentence, using different words as much as possible. Do not be satisfied with the first answer you think of; think of several, and choose the best.
Clementi gave music lessons. They say each one cost a guinea. He was in great demand.