Luigi Ricci (composer)

Luigi Ricci (8 June 1805 – 31 December 1859) was an Italian composer, particularly known for his operas. Born in Naples, he came from a musical family; his brother, Federico Ricci, was also a successful composer.

Luigi Ricci studied at the Naples Conservatory, where he later taught. He achieved considerable success during his lifetime, particularly in Italy and Austria. His opera La Cira (1835) brought him widespread recognition. He was known for his melodic inventiveness and his ability to write effectively for the voice.

Other notable operas by Ricci include Chiara di Rosemberg (1831), Il Colombo (1834), Un'avventura di Scaramuccia (1834), and Crispino e la Comare (with his brother Federico Ricci, 1850). Crispino e la Comare, a comic opera, is arguably his most enduring work and continues to be performed occasionally.

Ricci also held various musical positions, including that of Kapellmeister to the Imperial Theatre in Saint Petersburg, Russia, a post he accepted in 1844. He remained in Russia for several years before eventually returning to Italy. Luigi Ricci died in Prague in 1859. His legacy rests primarily on his operatic output, particularly the aforementioned Crispino e la Comare.