A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Farinelli (composer)

by Paul David

FARINELLI, a violin-player and composer, was either a brother or an uncle [App. p.633 "omit the words 'either a brother or.'"] of the celebrated singer Farinelli (Carlo Broschi). Date and place of his birth and death are unknown. After living for some time in France we find him in 1680 at Hanover, side by side with Handel, as leader of the band. He appears to have enjoyed a great reputation as a performer, and considerable popularity as a composer of instrumental music in a light and pleasing style. He excelled especially in the performance of Lulli's airs and his own so-called 'Folia,' which was known in England during the last century as 'Farinell's^[1] ground.' [See Folia.] Farinelli was knighted by the King of Denmark, and, according to Hawkins, was appointed by George I. his resident at Venice.

[ P. D. ]

1. D'Urfey wrote his song 'Joy to great Cæsar' in honour of Charles II. to 'divisions' on this bass; it must, therefore, have been composed before 1685.