Pergolesi's considerable reputation rests on his opera L'Olimpiade and his Stabat mater. 

Pergolesi studied in Naples and worked as a violinist. He became maestro di cappella to the Prince of Stigliano in 1732 and to the Duke of Maddaloni in 1734. He wrote a number of stage works for Naples and an opera seria, L’Olimpiade (1735), for Rome.

His other works include sacred music (notably a ­Stabat mater of 1736, possibly his most-performed work), chamber cantatas and duets, and a few instrumental pieces. His reputation has grown ­posthumously as he didn’t enjoy a great deal of fame during his lifetime.