Cristofano Malvezzi (1547 – 1599) was one of the most famous composers in the city of Florence during a time of transition to the Baroque style.

Malevezzi was born in Lucca. From 1551 he lived in Florence, serving the Medicis from 1562.  He held a number of organist posts in the city, and also taught pupils, among them Jacopo Peri, who is often regarded as the inventor of opera.  From 1573 he held the double post of maestro di cappella at the cathedral as well as at S Giovanni Battista, which was the highest position for a musician in the city.

Among his works are three books of madrigals, a book of ricercars, but only two sacred compositions—a curious omission for a composer so closely connected with the church.