Biography
Franco Mannino (1924–2005) was an Italian composer, pianist and conductor. Born in Palermo, Sicily, he wrote music for more than a hundred films and over 440 concert works, including operas, ballets, symphonies and chamber music.
He made his debut as a pianist at the age of 16 and later conducted the National Arts Centre Orchestra in Canada (1982–1986). Mannino collaborated repeatedly with director Luchino Visconti, whose sister Uberta Visconti di Modrone he married; their films together include Bellissima (1951), Death in Venice (1971, as conductor), Conversation Piece (1974) and The Innocent (1976). He also composed the score for Beat the Devil (1953).
Mannino died in Rome following surgery.
