Peri, Achille

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Peri, Achille

Peri, Achille , Italian composer; b. Reggio Emilia, Dec. 20,1812; d. there, March 28,1880. He studied piano and composition with Gregori and Rabitti in Reggio Emilia, and then completed his training with Carafa in Paris. He wrote operas for several Italian theaters and also served as maestro di cappella at Reggio Emilia Cathedral. His finest opera was the biblical drama Giuditta (La Scala, Milan, March 26, 1860). Although a failure at its premiere, it was revived there two years later to much acclaim. His other works included chamber music, piano pieces, choral works, and songs.

—Laura Kuhn/Dennis McIntire