The Legend of Caffarelli

Gaetano Majorano, who later took the stage name Caffarelli, was born in 1703 in Bari, then part of the Kingdom of Naples. His father was a peasant who initially opposed Gaetano's musical aspirations, insisting the boy focus on farm work instead. However, Gaetano's dedication to singing at a local chapel caught the attention of composer Cafaro, who recognized the boy's talent. Cafaro arranged for Gaetano to study music, first sending him to Norcia to train as a castrato singer per the custom of the time. Upon Gaetano's return, Cafaro provided him rudimentary lessons in Naples. When Gaetano went to study under the renowned teacher Porpora, he took on the name "Caffarelli" to honor his first mentor. Porpora famously made Caffarelli practice just one page of exercises for five or six years, after which Porpora declared him the greatest singer in the world!

While this is a legend and the details may or may not be entirely accurate, it serves to illustrate the value of consistent and diligent musical exercise. The value of a thorough physical and mental routine in conditioning the body and mind must not be underestimated for a serious musician.