Who composed over 800 pieces of music and is one of the three great composers of the Baroque period?

The correct answer is Johann Sebastian Bach, who is renowned for composing over 800 pieces of music, including masterpieces in various forms such as cantatas, concertos, and fugues. His prolific output and ability to integrate complex musical ideas into coherent structures mark him as one of the towering figures of the Baroque period, alongside other great composers like George Frideric Handel and Antonio Vivaldi.

Bach’s works are celebrated for their technical mastery and emotional depth, showcasing his skillful use of counterpoint and harmony. Not only did he contribute significantly to the development of musical forms, but he also influenced generations of composers who followed him.

The other individuals listed do not fit the criteria specified in the question. Mozart, though a significant composer, belongs to the Classical period rather than the Baroque. Francis Drake and Vasco da Gama, on the other hand, were prominent explorers and are unrelated to classical music composition. Therefore, Bach is the clear choice among the given options.