An anonymous obituary written by a fellow monk states that Antonio Soler often survived on only four hours' sleep, working until midnight or one o'clock and rising at four or five for Mass.
Composer Biography
Antonio Soler, the composer, was baptised in Olot, Spain, in 1729 and entered the famous choir school at the Monastery of Montserrat at age six.
Composition History
Antonio Soler is reputed to have studied composition with Domenico Scarlatti, a famous Italian Baroque composer, between 1752 and 1757, and many of Soler's sonatas show his influence.
Compositional Technique
Many of Antonio Soler's instrumental works, including sonatas, were composed for the Infante Don Gabriel, son of Carlos III, whom Soler served as music master.
Composer Biography
Antonio Soler became a monk at the Escorial monastery near Madrid in 1752, having volunteered to retreat from the world and take holy orders.
Instruments
Many of Antonio Soler's sonatas were likely played on a 63-key harpsichord with a five-octave compass, built by Diego Fernández for the Infante Don Gabriel in 1761.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Despite his monastic duties, Antonio Soler was expected to provide the Spanish Royal family with secular and instrumental music during their frequent visits to the Escorial.
