Gioachino Rossini ( born Pesaro 29 February 1792 ; died Passy 13 November 1868 ) was an Italian composer . He was the most famous composer of operas in his time . Gioachino Antonio Rossini ( February 29 , 1792 -- November 13 , 1868 ) was an Italian composer who wrote 39 operas as well as sacred music , chamber music , songs , and some instrumental and piano pieces .