This disc includes compositions by Niccolo Porpora and Johann Gottlieb Goldberg, two composers rarely known to the general public. If we’re remembering their output today that’s certainly not for thes ake of dusting off duly forgotten compositions that got deservedly retired along with the passing away of their epoch but to restore theworks’ rightful stance in musical literature.

Porpora’s Cantatas abound in elaborate recitatives that inspired later generations of composers. One may not miss noticing various original instrumental techniques (like violin accompagnato, cello arpeggios) and unusual harmonies. The arias are written for performers representing a high level of musical skill and are characterized by beautiful melodies underlining the expression of the literary text.

The name of the prematurely deceased at the age of 29 Johann Gottlieb Goldberg went down in history mostly thanks to Johann Sebastian Bach’s well-known “Goldberg Variations”. The name of the prematurely deceased at the age of 29 Johann Gottlieb Goldberg went down in history mostly thanks to Johann Sebastian Bach’s well-known “Goldberg Variations”.