Girolamo Frescobaldi was an influential Italian composer and organist born in 1583 in Ferrara. He is best known for his keyboard music, which played a significant role in the development of Baroque music. Frescobaldi's compositions include toccatas, canzonas, and ricercares, showcasing his innovative use of harmony and counterpoint. Frescobaldi served as the organist at various churches, including the famous St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. His work greatly impacted later composers, such as Johann Sebastian Bach and Domenico Scarlatti, who admired his intricate style. Frescobaldi passed away in 1643, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of music.