Biography
An Italian composer of opera, Coccia trained with Casella, Valente, Fenaroli, and Paisiello. Far from turning into another rote imitator of Paisiello, as so many of that master’s pupils did, he earned comparisons with Mayr instead. Assessments of his output proved inconsistent. In weaker phases his operas drew charges of derivativeness and hasty execution, yet at stronger moments they revealed resolve, emotional intensity, and favorable notice. Public enthusiasm for his music remained limited, yet the composer still secured appointments and mounted productions in Venice, Lisbon, and London. Beyond the stage works he also wrote several masses and additional sacred pieces.