The librettist for "Didone," Giovanni Francesco Busenello, altered Virgil's original tragic ending for Dido, having her marry Iarbas instead of committing suicide.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Francesco Cavalli, the composer, aimed to enrich the work's language with dramatic substance and a melodic conception that built upon his 'maestro' Monteverdi.
Composition History
Cavalli's opera "Didone" premiered in 1641 at Venice's Teatro San Cassiano, with a libretto by Giovanni Francesco Busenello.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The composer's 'Argomento' for "Didone" in 1641 stated that the opera did not adhere to ancient rules, indicating a new artistic direction.
Performer Biography
Fabio Biondi, the conductor of this recording, is highlighted as a strong point of the album.
Recording & Production
This recording of "Didone" was made in September 2006 at La Fenice.
