Donemus Webwinkel — Catalani, Ottavio

Ottavio Catalani was an Italian composer of the Early Baroque.
He was born in Enna, Sicily round 1560. He took holy orders in Catania and became organist in that town. He moved to Rome and from 1603 he was maestro di cappella in
the church of St. Apollinare, linked to the German College, and maintained this position for over 20 years. In 1615 he got a contract with the Borghese family as a tutor and music teacher for prince Marcantonio and fulfilled this task until 1619. Tutor of Scipione Caffarelli Borghese, the favourite son of his father, he was maestro of one of the most prestigious cappelle of Rome. Catalani composed much sacred music in those days, including liturgical music, but also profane works when asked for by the Borghese family. His works are to be found in libraries in Berlin, Düsseldorf, Rome, and often in editions together with works of others. E.g. in the bundle Selection of Motets (Scelta di Motetti - transcription published by Donemus: D 14691) and Motets through the Liturgical Year (Promptuarium Musicum
- transcription published by Donemus: D 16173 & D 14763). His original work has been published by the major publishing housed in Rome, like Zanetti an Robletti.
Some words about the dedicatee: Pope Paul V was a son of the Borghese family. He was elected Pope in 1605 and reigned for more than 16 1/2 years. During his pontificate he altered the facade of St. Peter’s basilica, the Pauline chapel of the Sª Maria Maggiore. The foundation of the Villa Borghese was another display of the family’s wealth.
The texture of Catalani’s music is not very intricate, few polyphony; but it shows a skilled craftsmanship and a fine taste for aesthetics.