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Italian opera composer renowned for his long, expressive vocal melodies and a central figure in the bel canto tradition.Born in Catania, Sicily, Bellini studied at the Naples Conservatory. His operas, including 'Norma', 'La sonnambula', and 'I puritani', achieved immense success during his short life, characterized by their lyrical beauty and dramatic intensity. He died unexpectedly at age 33 near Paris.

• Bellini's death in 1835 was caused by acute inflammation of the intestine, likely dysentery or amoebic dysentery, exacerbated by a chronic abscess.
• His relationship with Giuditta Turina, a married woman, caused significant scandal and personal turmoil, ending bitterly.
• He faced intense rivalry with fellow composer Gaetano Donizetti, though their relationship was complex and sometimes collegial.
• Bellini was notoriously slow and meticulous in composing, driven by a pursuit of perfection, which sometimes strained relations with librettists and impresarios.
• His estate became embroiled in legal battles after his death, as he died intestate (without a will), leaving his fortune to be disputed.