Francesco Mancini (16 December 1672 – 18 September 1737) was an Italian composer of the late Baroque period. Born in Naples, he was a prominent figure in the Neapolitan School of music.
Mancini served as maestro di cappella at various Neapolitan churches and institutions, including the royal chapel. He was particularly esteemed for his vocal compositions, including operas, oratorios, and cantatas. His operas, while not as widely known today as those of some of his contemporaries like Alessandro Scarlatti, were significant in the development of Neapolitan opera during the early 18th century. He composed over 30 operas, including Idaspe (1711) and Alessandro il Grande in Sidone (1721).
Beyond opera, Mancini composed extensively in other genres, including instrumental concertos, sonatas, and sacred music. His concertos display a refined sense of melody and orchestration, while his sacred works demonstrate a mastery of counterpoint and vocal writing.
Despite a period of relative obscurity after his death, Mancini's music has experienced a revival in recent years, with performances and recordings bringing renewed attention to his compositional talent. His work is now recognized as an important contribution to the rich musical landscape of the Baroque era.