Originally born in Rome, Clementi made his home in England having at the age of 14, found a wealthy patron in the form of Sir Peter Beckford, who took the boy to his country estates at Fonthill Abbey. It was here that Clementi began his composing career. As well a composer he was partner in a firm of piano manufacturers and also started his own company of music publishers. Whilst in Vienna in 1781, it was Clementi who took part in the famous piano duel alongside Mozart and in the presence of Emperor Joseph II.