Claudio Merulo, Italian organist and composer (died 1604)

Claudio Merulo was an Italian composer, publisher and organist of the late Renaissance period, most famous for his innovative keyboard music and his ensemble music composed in the Venetian polychoral style. He was born in Correggio and died in Parma. Born Claudio Merlotti, he Latinised his surname when he became famous in Venetian cultural clubs.

April 8 is the 98th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar; 267 days remain until the end of the year.