Giovanni Battista Pergolesi, one of the most renowned composers of the Baroque era, was born on January 4, 1710, in Jesi, Italy. Despite his short life, Pergolesi's musical legacy continues to captivate audiences centuries later. From an early age, Pergolesi exhibited prodigious musical talent, receiving his initial training in music from his father and later studying at the Conservatorio dei Poveri di Gesù Cristo in Naples. It was in Naples where Pergolesi honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of the operatic and sacred music forms that would come to define his career.
Franz Liszt, a towering figure in the realm of classical music, was born on October 22, 1811, in Raiding, Hungary (now part of Austria). His life was a symphony of talent, passion, and innovation, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. From an early age, Liszt showed prodigious musical abilities. He began piano lessons with his father at the age of six and gave his first public performance at the age of nine. Recognizing his son's exceptional talent, Liszt's father sought out professional tutelage for him, taking him to Vienna to study with Carl Czerny and Antonio Salieri. By his teenage years, Liszt had already established himself as a virtuoso pianist, captivating audiences across Europe with his extraordinary skill and electrifying performances.