Martucci, Giuseppe (1856–1909)

Italian pianist, conductor, and composer. He travelled widely as a pianist, founded the Quartetto Napoletano for the cultivation of chamber music, and became an orchestral conductor. In 1888 he produced the first Italian performance of Wagner's Tristan at Bologna.

He was first taught by his father, a bandmaster, and appeared as a pianist in his childhood. He then studied at the Naples Conservatory 1867–72, and became professor there in 1874. In 1886 he was appointed director of the Liceo Musicale at Bologna and there produced Tristan in 1888. In 1902 he returned to Naples as director of the Conservatory.

Works Oratorio Samuele.

Orchestral two symphonies, 4 piccoli pezzi for orchestra; piano concertos in D minor, B♭ minor (1878, 1885).

Chamber piano quintet, two piano trios; cello and piano sonata; various instrumental pieces; variations and fantasy for two pianos.

Other songs, ‘Pagine sparse’, ‘Due sogni’, and others.