This brief bio of a man about whom very little is known might be subtitled, Mozart before Mozart. Unlike his better known and better travelled contemporaries, Antonio was born in Briosco just outside Milan and lived his entire live in the area, dying in Milan around 1756 (the exact date is uncertain).
What he has left behind is a legacy of some 50 symphonies. The significance of his work was only really understood when his work was rediscovered in the 1980s.
Yet in his day his symphonies were performed around Italy and were especially popular in Paris.
His work is notably Mozartian (although the master was born just after Brioschi died) and he is one a handful of composers who provide a bridge between the baroque and early classical eras.
The complex interplay of instruments with lively flourishes and a lyrical texture distinguishes his work, along with his contemporary Sammartini from that which had gone before. And reminds us of all the reasons why his work deserves greater recognition.
This great "unknown" is a truly remarkable talent (and yes, sooo Mozartian). Enjoying these symphonies hugely in spite of the irritating commercial breaks. A terrific discovery, Andrew. Thank you ...