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This is an example of a serenata, or "serenade" - in this context, a hybrid between a cantata and an opera. Usually intended to be performed in the evening hours, it is an open-air work, often composed for use during an important occasion. In this case, the authorship of Andromeda liberata is in question. It may have been entirely the work of Antonio Vivaldi; the aria "Sovvente il sole" is almost certainly his, but the composer(s) of the rest of the serenata cannot be definitively established. It is possible that the serenata might be what is known as a pasticcio, or an assemblage of music by several composers. In the booklet note, a case is made for both possibilities, but without coming to any conclusions.

The story, in brief, comes from Greek mythology, and concerns Andromeda, the daughter of Cassiopeia, who has been freed by Perseus from the rock where she has been chained. Cassopeia has promised Andromeda to Perseus as a reward. For her part, Andromeda is grateful, but she initially refuses Perseus because she is in love with Daliso. In time, however, she learns that Daliso is incapable of love, and she willingly accepts Perseus, thereby allowing the serenata to end with rejoicing. It is likely that Andromeda liberata was composed for a happy event, possibly the return of the exiled Cardinal Ottoboni to his native Venice.


Veel plezier ermee..