Composer

:

Barbara Strozzi

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1651

Average_duration

:

4:34

Barbara Strozzi was a prominent Italian composer of the Baroque era, known for her vocal music. One of her most famous works is "Begli occhi, Op. 2," a collection of eight arias for soprano and continuo. The collection was composed in Venice in 1655 and was published the following year. It was dedicated to the Grand Duchess of Tuscany, Vittoria della Rovere, who was a patron of the arts and a supporter of Strozzi's music. The eight arias in "Begli occhi, Op. 2" are each set to a different text, and they showcase Strozzi's skill in writing for the voice. The arias are characterized by their expressive melodies, virtuosic vocal lines, and rich harmonies. The first aria, "Begli occhi," is a passionate love song that features a soaring vocal line and a lively, dance-like rhythm. The second aria, "L'Eraclito amoroso," is a melancholy piece that explores the pain of unrequited love. The third aria, "Che si può fare," is a lively and playful song that celebrates the joys of love. The fourth aria, "Lagrime mie," is a mournful piece that expresses the sorrow of a broken heart. The fifth aria, "L'Amante modesto," is a tender love song that features a gentle, flowing melody. The sixth aria, "La Vendetta," is a dramatic piece that tells the story of a woman seeking revenge on her unfaithful lover. The seventh aria, "L'Astratto," is a complex and challenging piece that showcases Strozzi's skill in writing for the voice. The final aria, "L'Eraclito amoroso," is a reprise of the second aria, but with a more hopeful and optimistic tone. Overall, "Begli occhi, Op. 2" is a masterful collection of vocal music that showcases Strozzi's skill as a composer and her ability to capture the emotions of the human experience.

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