Statira, Principessa di Persia. Francesco Cavalli. Conducted by Antonio Florio. Cappella de'Turchini.

Nave CD OP 30382.

Baroque opera is a new genre of the form for me and Cavalli a new composer.

Born in 1602, Pier Francesco Caletti was taken to Venice by a wealthy patron when only 14; he was an outstanding singer.

His gratitude to his patron was shown by taking his name and be became known as Francesco Cavalli.

Having met Monteverdi, the influence of the great man is apparent, and, after his death Cavalli took over his throne.

Written in 1656, Statira was first performed in Venice, but was also performed in Naples.

The plot is well-suited to an opera house being full of amorous intrigue, disguise, passion and jealousy. The story is of a Persian princess, daughter of Darius III, who became Alexander the Great's second wife.

Cappella della Pieta de'Turchini founded in 1987, is a collection of singers and instrumentalists, whose speciality is the music of the Neopolitan repertoire of the 16th, 17th and 18th Centuries.

Their expertise is essential for this recording, the difficulties are easily overcome by this successful group of musicians.

Cavalli's work suffered many years of neglect, being considered out of fashion for many decades.

It's so nice to know that it hasn't been forgotten.

It might not be to everyone's taste, but should not dismissed out of hand.