Born in Naples, the harpsichordist, composer and castrato singer Pietro Domenico Paradies studied with Porpora in Venice, for some time serving him, as Haydn was to do, as a copyist and assistant both in Italy and in London. He spent some time subsequently in the latter city as a harpsichordist and teacher; his most distinguished pupil was the elder Thomas Linley – the playwright Sheridan’s father-in-law, and father of Mozart’s friend.

Vocal and Instrumental Music
Paradies made early attempts at a career as a composer of opera. He is remembered primarily for a Toccata included in his 12 Sonate di gravicembalo (‘Harpsichord Sonatas’), published in London in 1754.