composer

Ruffo, Vincenzo

Vincenzo Ruffo was born in Verona around 1508 and became a priest there in 1531. In the same year as the publication of his first book of music in 1542 he was appointed as maestro di cappella at the Savona cathedral. One year later the cathedral was destroyed by the Genoese and Ruffo fled.
After working in Milan and Verona for the governor he became music director of the Accademia Filarmonica at Verona and also the maestro di cappella. Some historians say that he taught Gian Matteo Asola, Marc’ Antonio Ingegnieri and even Andrea Gabrieli. Interesting yes, certain no.
In 1563 he became the maestro di cappella in Milan and began composing in the Tridentine style, thus becoming one of the composers most responsive to the musical demands and reforms suggested by the Council of Trent, especially in the composition of masses. As such he was an influential member of the Counter-Reformation. In Milan several of his compositions were published as well.
In 1572 he became maestro di cappella in Pistoia, Milan again, and after that in Sacile where he died in 1587.

Cees Wagemakers, 2015