Francesco Azopardi : a Maltese musician and theorist : new evidence about his career and didactic writings

Abstract

Francesco Azopardi (1748-1809) lived in Malta during the second half of the eighteenth century. He was professionally trained in Naples for four years and remained in this city working as a composer, teacher and conductor until 1774. The Cathedral authorities subsequently employed Azopardi in Malta as an organist. His duties included composition, playing the organ and teaching singers. Azopardi's workload increased significantly following the retirement of his predecessor Benigno Zerafa. Azopardi was a prolific composer and he composed new music regularly for the liturgical services of the Cathedral Church. In addition, he taught many students including Nicolo lsouard and produced two important composition treatises for his students.