Farinelli (originally Broschi), Carlo, an Italian singer, born in Naples or in Andria, Jan. 24, 1705, died in Bologna, July 15, 1782. The extraordinary beauty of his soprano voice was attributed to his having been emasculated. He was a favorite pupil of Porpora, and met with brilliant success at the principal theatres of Italy. In 1734 he went to London, where he soon created an excitement. He performed three years in England, and netted every year £5,000. In France his success was equally great. In Madrid he dissipated the melancholy of Philip V., became the king's chief favorite, and after his death was similarly honored by Ferdinand VI., receiving an annual salary of $10,000, on condition that he should sing only for the royal ears. He prevailed upon Ferdinand to organize a theatre in the palace, for which he engaged eminent artists from Italy, and of which he became the director. For 20 years he ruled the court of Spain, not only by the charms of his voice, but gradually by his influence in political affairs. In 1759, on the accession of Charles III., Farinelli fell into disgrace, and three years later was ordered to leave the kingdom.

He then took up his abode at Bologna, and built a splendid palace in the vicinity of the town, in which he passed the rest of his life.