Gioachino Rossini

Rossini entered the world in Naples, Italy in 1792 and can perhaps be called the grandfather of Italian opera. Although he lived until 1868, and wrote 39 operas, for the last 40 years of his life he wrote none at all ! He is renowned for the 'invention' of the overture, a piece of music played by the orchestra before the curtain goes up (just to get you in the mood). Unlike many other composers, his overtures had very little in common with the opera itself, and were almost interchangeable. Nevertheless, they are irresistable and as much a part of Rossini opera as huge choruses were to Verdi. 

With few exceptions the operas of Rossini which have survived have been his comedies, and the best known of these is Il barbiere di Siviglia - The Barber of Seville. The main character in this hugely entertaining piece is the inimitable Figaro, who, in this hilarious farce, plots with Count Almaviva to win the heart of Rosina, ward of the miserable Dr. Bartolo. The opening night in Rome, 1816, was an utter disaster, but today it is arguably the most performed opera of all. With the unmistakeable vocal & musical style of Rossini, this is a winner. 

Source: Opera Goodies Website