Venezia

The march „Venezia” by Gaetano Fabiani (1841-1904) is probably the most famous Italian march in Germany. It is regarded as a preeminent example of the Italian art of the march, and as a concert march it anticipates the marcia sinfonica. Gaetano Fabiani was born into a wealthy family of musicians and grew up in Empoli, between Florence and Pisa. His parents enabled his study of piano, composition and instrumentation with Maestro Anichini in Florence. His compositional talent was sensational by an early age.

Fabiani directed the band of his hometown Empoli, patronized regional band music and taught composition. His own works were instantly popular; he wrote church and vocal music, music for symphonic orchestra, ballet, operetta, piano and much band music. Bands especially liked his military and funeral marches.

Fabiani’s success was mostly appreciated by his peers. They did not understand his reluctance to further exploit his gift, having decided to devote his talents to his provincial environment rather than seek personal fame. His compositional style and use of harmony reveals Fabiani’s reverence for tradition and home.