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Franco-Flemish composer of the Renaissance, renowned as one of the most influential early masters of the Italian madrigal.Franco-Flemish composer active in Italy (Florence, Rome) and later France.Key figure in the early development of the Italian madrigal.Served prestigious posts including membership in the Papal Choir in Rome.His First Book of Madrigals (1539) was one of the most widely printed and disseminated music collections of the entire 16th century.Also composed significant sacred music, including masses and motets.

• Despite composing deeply expressive and often sensual secular madrigals, Arcadelt also held prestigious positions writing sacred music for the Catholic Church, including membership in the Papal Choir under Pope Paul III.
• His move from Florence to Rome around 1539 was likely driven by the opportunity to join the Papal Choir, a highly sought-after position for composers.
• His later career shift to France (around 1551) followed Cardinal Charles de Lorraine, indicating his high status and the mobility of top Renaissance musicians seeking patronage.
• The exact circumstances and location of his death in 1568 remain unclear, though he was documented in Paris and likely died there.