Caterina Gabrielli studied under Nicola Porpora during her early musical training, after prince Gabrielli recognized her vocal talent and arranged for her to receive instruction from leading teachers. Following initial studies with García, she was placed under the guidance of Porpora, who at the time was considered one of the finest singing teachers in Europe. Her studies with him occurred in Italy, likely in Rome or Naples, during the period of her youth in the 1740s.
Porpora’s reputation as a master of vocal technique, having trained celebrated singers such as Farinelli and Caffarelli, ensured that Gabrielli received exceptional instruction that helped shape her into one of the most important sopranos of her era. Contemporary accounts suggest that within months of beginning her studies she was already able to perform publicly, demonstrating rapid development that can be attributed in part to Porpora’s rigorous training. His influence remained foundational to her later success on major European stages.
