Josef Mysliveček

Bio

Josef Mysliveček (1737–1781) was a Bohemian composer of the late Baroque and early Classical eras. Born in Prague, he became one of the most successful Czech musicians of his time, working primarily in Italy where he was known as “Il Divino Boemo.” He composed more than 50 operas, numerous symphonies, concertos, and chamber works that bridged the styles of the late Baroque and the emerging Classical period. His music influenced younger composers, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who admired his melodic invention and dramatic sense. Despite his international success, Mysliveček spent his final years in poverty and died in Rome at age 43. Today he is remembered as a key figure in 18th-century Czech music and a significant link between Italian opera traditions and the Classical style.