Luigi De Donato; Collegium 1704; Vaclav Luks - Polifemo: Arias by Handel, Bononcini, Alberti

Polyphemus, a cyclops of ancient Greek legend with one eye and three fingers on each hand, became a central figure in many myths and in their musical settings by Baroque composers.

This son of Poseidon, a giant of insurmountable strength, appears in many fables, the best known of which are his encounters Odysseus during the hero's homeward journey and with Theseus, who kills Polyphemus.

The Italian bass Luigi De Donato has the right voice and temperament to represent the ideal embodiment of Polyphemus, and together with Collegium 1704 under the baton of Vaclav Luks he breathes life into ancient Greek legends. This new recording features arias from Handel, Porpora, Alberti and Bononcini. He is a multitalented musician and singer and has distinguished himself as one of the foremost interpreters of the repertoire of the 17th and 18th century working with leading conductors and Baroque ensembles.

his control of the vertiginous intervals and the resonance of his voice are very impressive indeed � BBC Music Magazine ****

Luigi De Donato is accompanied by the excellent Collegium 1704, a wonderfully flexible Czech ensemble on period instruments, skillfully conducted by Vaclav Luks � Pizzicato ****