This well-known collection of 21 arias, some including recitatives, is an ideal introduction to singing in Italian, as well as providing useful material for the advanced performer. The set contains a varied selection of operatic arias, movements from solo cantatas, and songs, and includes contributions from well-known composers, such as Handel and Monteverdi, as well as those which may not previously have been encountered. The arias themselves range from the rarely heard to the very familiar - "Lascia ch"io pianga" and the cavatina "Caro mio ben" to name but two of the latter. From the animated "Alma del core" and the intensely dramatic "O del mio dolce ardor "to the sustained tranquillity of "Posate, dormite", this is a collection to suit many occasions.