Where did Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina hold significant positions during his career?

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina is widely regarded as one of the most important composers of the Renaissance, particularly known for his sacred music. His significant positions were primarily at St. Peter's in Rome and with the Sistine Chapel Choir. Serving at these prestigious institutions allowed Palestrina to showcase and develop his unique style of polyphony, which became foundational in the tradition of Western choral music. His compositions often reflected the liturgical needs and musical aspirations of the Catholic Church during the Counter-Reformation, making his role at these sites crucial not only for his career but also for the development of sacred music.

The other options do not accurately represent Palestrina's career. He did not have notable affiliations with royal courts, nor did he work with major orchestras, as his focus was primarily on choral music rather than instrumental ensembles. Additionally, while his music may have been studied and appreciated at universities, he did not hold formal teaching positions as a music professor. This concentration on his roles at St. Peter's and the Sistine Chapel highlights the relevance of his contributions to church music in a historic context.