Italian composer born Giovanni Rota Rinaldi on December 3, 1911, in Milan; died April 10, 1979. Best known for his film scores for Federico Fellini (La Strada, 1954; La Dolce Vita, 1960; 8½, 1963; Amarcord, 1973) and Francis Ford Coppola (The Godfather, 1972; The Godfather Part II, 1974).
Composed scores for over 150 films, plus 11 operas, four symphonies, and numerous ballets and concertos. Won an Academy Award for The Godfather Part II (1974). His main theme from The Godfather is among the most recognized themes in film history.
