João de Sousa Carvalho (1745-1798) was a Portuguese composer and conductor, primarily known for his contributions to the genres of opera and sacred music during the late 18th century. Born in Lisbon, he studied in Italy and became an influential figure in the development of Portuguese classical music. Carvalho's notable works include the operas "A Dama de Pique" and "As Três Irmãs," which reflect the influence of Italian opera, particularly the styles of composers like Mozart. Carvalho also made significant contributions to church music, composing numerous masses and other liturgical works that showcased his melodic and harmonic skills. His ability to blend traditional Portuguese musical elements with contemporary European styles helped to elevate the status of Portuguese music in the broader European context. Despite the limited recognition during his lifetime, Carvalho's work laid the groundwork for future generations of Portuguese composers. His operatic and sacred compositions have been revisited and performed in recent years, contributing to the resurgence of interest in Portugal's classical music heritage. His impact is felt in the way he bridged cultural influences, enriching the national music landscape.