ANTONIO SCONTRINO  

Another key figure in the rebirth of Italian instrumental music, although one who has yet to receive the recognition he deserves, is that of Antonio Scontrino (1850–1922). Having toured Europe in his youth as a double bass soloist, between 1872 and 1874 he studied classical and modern music in Munich. On his return to Italy he tried his hand as an opera composer, but with only modest success, going on to teach at the conservatories of Palermo and Florence. He devoted all his energies in later life to writing instrumental works, which were much performed and very popular in Germany.