Iestyn Davies sings Handel Ombra mai fu from Serse, HWV40, Iestyn Davies, AAM

Internationally acclaimed countertenor Iestyn Davies sings the achingly lovely aria Ombra mai fu from Handel s opera Serse (Xerxes), HWV40. Iestyn is joined by the Academy of Ancient Music, directed by Chad Kelly. OMBRA MAI FU The opening number from Handel s 1738 opera, Serse, this aria was rediscovered in the 19th century and has become one of Handel s bestknown pieces. Often known simply as Largo from Xerxes, this aria was adapted by Handel from a setting by Giovanni Bononcini, who in turn had adapted it from a setting by Francesco Cavalli. Sung in the opera by the main character Xerxes I of Persia as he admires the shade of a plane tree: Ombra mai fu di vegetabile, cara ed amabile, soave Never was a shade of any plant dearer and more lovely, or more MUSIC Ombra Mai Fu from: Xerses, Serse HWV 40 1738 composer: G. F Handel 1685 1759 ACADEMY OF ANCIEN