The genesis of Concerto Soave is closely bound up with the music of 17th-century Italian composers. The ensemble was the first, some 15 years ago, to devote a recording to the Sacri Musicali Affetti of Barbara Strozzi. However, the great Venetian woman composer is not the only one who deserves the honor of recording. Most of the female composers on Il Canto delle Dame came from the ranks of the aristocracy; some consecrated themselves to God. In both cases, they found the wherewithal not only to compose and to achieve recognition from their peers, but also to publish their output. Maria Cristina Kiehr has established a reputation with press and public alike as one of the leading interpreters of baroque vocal music. She is capable of combining the smoothness of her unique timbre with fervent respect for the poetic texts she champions with humility and warmth.