Member-only story

The Life and Times of the Legendary Opera Impresario Domenico Barbaja

Tom Clancy

·19.9k Followers· Follow

Published in Bel Canto Bully: The Life And Times Of The Legendary Opera Impresario Domenico Barbaja

4 min read

638 View Claps

49 Respond

Save

Listen

Domenico Barbaja was born in Milan, Italy, in 1778. He was the son of a poor cobbler, and he began his career as a waiter in a coffeehouse. However, Barbaja had a natural talent for business, and he soon became the manager of the coffeehouse. In 1805, he took over the management of La Scala, one of the most prestigious opera houses in Europe.

Bel Canto Bully: The Life and Times of the Legendary Opera Impresario Domenico Barbaja

by Philip Eisenbeiss

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7194 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	305 pages

Barbaja was a shrewd businessman, and he quickly made La Scala one of the most successful opera houses in the world. He was able to attract the best singers and musicians, and he staged lavish productions that were the talk of the town. Barbaja was also a keen judge of talent, and he was instrumental in the careers of many great opera singers, including Maria Malibran and Giuditta Pasta.

In 1815, Barbaja took over the management of the San Carlo opera house in Naples. He also managed opera houses in Vienna and London. Barbaja was a tireless worker, and he was always looking for new ways to improve his opera houses. He introduced many innovations, including the use of gas lighting and the of new operas to the repertoire.

Barbaja was a controversial figure, and he was often accused of being greedy and ruthless. However, there is no doubt that he was one of the most successful and influential opera impresarios of the 19th century. He played a major role in the development of opera, and he helped to make it one of the most popular forms of entertainment in the world.

Barbaja died in Naples in 1841. He was 63 years old. He is buried in the Cimitero di Poggioreale in Naples.

Barbaja's Legacy

Barbaja's legacy is still felt today. He is considered one of the most important figures in the history of opera. His innovations helped to shape the way opera is performed and produced today. He also played a major role in the development of the careers of many great opera singers.

Barbaja's story is a rags-to-riches tale that is both inspiring and cautionary. He was a man of humble origins who rose to the top of his profession. However, he was also a ruthless businessman who was not afraid to use underhanded tactics to achieve his goals. Barbaja's legacy is a reminder that success can come at a price.