Biography
Having studied under Menon and Donato, Merulo secured the role of organist at Brescia Cathedral upon reaching the age of twenty three. From 1557 to 1584 his duties at St Mark's Cathedral in Venice encompassed performing as organist while also extending to work as an organ consultant, publisher, and teacher. He later held positions in Parma and with the Steccata company. Celebrated for the virtuosity of his organ performances, Merulo cultivated a distinctive approach to the ricercare and toccata. Beyond producing over ten volumes for the organ, he created sacred masses, motets, magnificats, and secular madrigals. Surviving compositions by Merulo comprise nine volumes of sacred vocal music and four volumes of secular madrigals.