FEBRUARY ITALIANS

By Matthew V. Grieco

Although it is the shortest month, February boasts the birth of many notable Italians, among whom are:

Composer Giacomo (also Gioachino or Gioacchino) Rossini (1792-1868), who wrote 39 operas (all composed before he turned 37), including The Barber of Seville (written in only 12 days, and, incredibly, a flop when it premiered) and William Tell (don’t forget the Lone Ranger Theme), as well numerous other musical works.

Soprano Renata Tebaldi (1922-2004), whom Arturo Toscanini described as possessing “the voice of an angel.” She overcame childhood polio and became one of the Metropolitan Opera’s most beloved performers, enjoying an open rivalry with Maria Callas.

Enrico Caruso (1873-1921), probably the most famous tenor of all time.  It was in February 1916 that he first recorded “O Sole Mio” on a Victor Talking Machine.

Physicist Alessandro Volta (1745-1827), who invented the voltaic pile, the first electric battery, and discovered methane gas.

Anatomist Giovanni Morgagni (1682-1771), whose systematic observation, description, and correlation of symptoms, risk factors, organ damage, and diseases, earned him the title, Father of Modern Pathology. His clinical principles and practices remain in force today.

Automobile manufacturer Enzo Ferrari (1898-1988). After his discharge from the army at the end of World War I, Fiat rejected his employment application.

Pope Paul III (1468-1549), born Alessandro Farnese, who convoked the Council of Trent, which settled important issues of Catholic doctrine, including the sacraments.

Fashion designer Franco Moschino (1950-1994), whose playful designs continue to delight.

And, of course, February 14 (269 or 270 A.D.) marks the martyrdom of St. Valentine. Pope Gelasius I declared the date a celebration in 496 A.D., to commemorate the Roman priest who married many Christian couples during a time of persecution.