This is a four disc set that includes cantatas by:Alessandro Scarlatti-Caldara-Handel and Giovanni Bonancini. What a treasure trove of music! The cantata, to some extent, is a development from the madrigal that appeared in Italy at the start of the seventeenth century. While the madrigal was refined and delicate, the cantata evolved because composers felt the need to introduce a dramatic narrative element into vocal chamber music and thusly the music took a lighter, wittier turn. This is without a doubt one of Lesne's finest recordings. The already flawless compositions are elevated even higher by his exquisite ornamentation. Bononcini was a master of the genre and after listening to these compositions it should be apparent why he gave Handel such a run for his money. These works are easy to appreciate, far more so than Charpentier's in my opinion. Dramatic, Melodic, very bouncy harmonic rhythms, poignant slow movements - what more could you want? The instrumental ensemble is on par with Lesne's fabulous interpretations, the 'cello and trio sonate are equally as impressive as the cantate.