Benedetto Marcello (1686-1739) was an Italian composer, writer and nobleman, active in Venice during the Baroque period. He belonged to a distinguished family and combined public life with artistic work.

His output includes sacred music, cantatas, sonatas and concertos. He is especially known for his psalm settings, published as Estro poetico-armonico.

Marcello’s music is elegant, expressive and finely made, with a strong feeling for vocal line and text. It reflects the cultivated Venetian world beyond the better-known orbit of Vivaldi.

Although not as famous as some contemporaries, Marcello remains an important Italian Baroque figure. His music has poise, dignity and a thoughtful inward glow.