Antonio Caldara was an Italian Baroque composer, born in Venice in 1670 and active in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. He is known for his contributions to the development of the chamber cantata and opera.
"Selve amiche" is a beautiful aria from Caldara's opera "La costanza in amor vince l'inganno" (Constancy in Love Conquers Deception). In this aria, the singer addresses the friendly woods ("Selve amiche") and reflects on the soothing and consoling aspects of nature. The aria is admired for its expressive melody and emotive qualities, showcasing Caldara's mastery of Baroque vocal music.
Caldara's works, including "Selve amiche," are characterized by their lyricism, harmonic richness, and dramatic intensity. While he may not be as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries like Vivaldi or Handel, Caldara's contributions to the Baroque era are significant, and his compositions continue to be appreciated by those exploring the depth of Baroque music.