Early Music Review

This is a thoroughly enjoyable disc, with no fewer than 17 opera overtures by 13 composers (there are three by Giovanni Bonocini, and two each by Alessandro Scarlatti and Pollarolo). They range from the 'patchwork' overture to Totila by Legrenzi to the basically melody and bass with padding Catone in Utica by Leo. In between there are real jewels from Ariosti (the overture from Vespasiano) and, I have to say, Giovanni Bonocini. Steffani's Acheloo, which I actually publish, sounds very Purcellian. All in all, this disc is full of insight and revelation, and to be highly recommended.