Antonio Salvi

The Italian librettist and poet Antonio Salvi actually started out as a physician for the Medici family in Florence. Within the court of the Medici, Salvi was surrounded by the best musicians and artists of his time, and his written works began to gain more attention.

His work in opera was performed across Italy, and even made its way to Germany and London. He collaborated with numerous composers, including Orlandi, Perti, Scarlatti, Gasparini, Predieri, and Vivali, often adapting French or Spanish dramas into Italian for their librettos.

When Salvi met Handel in around 1706, a working relationship was easily established. Salvi wrote the librettos for no less than 7 of Handel's opera, including Rodelinda, Berenice and Ariodante.