Vivaldi wrote around forty cantatas in the so-called ‘Neapolitan’ style with alternating arias and recitatives. Some, such as All’ombra d’un bel faggio, are in an Arcadian setting, while others—including Allor che lo sguardo—take unrequited love as their theme. Whatever the context, Vivaldi’s inexhaustible reserves of expressive vocal writing, dancelike rhythms, and subtle weaving of instrumental and solo vocal lines are everywhere apparent. With text-setting of such refinement and delicacy, Vivaldi ensures that his music remains at all times balanced and elegant.