Gaetano Pugnani short biography

An outstanding Italian violinist, composer and teacher, Gaetano Pugnani studied with Somis and Tartini. In 1752, Pugnani was appointed the first violinist of the Royal Chapel in Turin. Concert tours throughout Europe brought Pugnani the international reputation as one of the best violin virtuosos of his generation. In 1770, Pugnani assumed the position of the director of the Royal Chapel. Pugnani was also recognized as a distinguished teacher; one of his students was Viotti.