Carlo Broschi, known as Farinelli, studied singing in Naples at the Conservatory of Sant'Onofrio under Nicola Porpora, who at that time was already regarded as one of the most renowned vocal teachers in Italy. Porpora trained him after his initial instruction from his father, shaping the young castrato’s technique and artistry during the years following the Broschi family’s move to Naples in 1711. Porpora’s guidance played a decisive role in Farinelli’s early development, giving him the foundation that enabled his debut in 1720 in Porpora’s own opera Angelica e Medoro.
The relationship that began as formal instruction grew into long-term artistic collaboration. Porpora continued to compose leading roles for Farinelli, entrusted him with major parts soon after his debut, and later brought him to London to sing in the opera company he directed between 1734 and 1737. Their professional bond, grounded in the formative teacher‑student connection established in Naples, endured across decades and international stages.
