The date of birth as well as the date of death of Maddalena Casulana (also Maddalena de Mezari Casulan Vicentina) is not known. The addition „Vicentina“ to her proper name is possibly an indication that „Vicenca“ was her place of birth or where she primarily composed her works. What is known about her life is that she lived in various locations as a composer, taught and gave concerts as a singer and lute player.
During the years 1566-1586, she published several volumes consisting of 3 to 5-part madrigals which mainly appeared in Venice. The works are considered the earliest musical manuscripts by a woman.
