A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Montagnana, Antonio
MONTAGNANA, Antonio, is the name of a celebrated basso, who appeared in England in the autumn of 1731. He made his debut on the London boards in 'Poro' (revived); and in January, 1732, he created the bass rôle in 'Ezio,' Handel having written specially for him the famous song 'Nasce al bosco,' which is composed on a different plan from most of his other bass songs, and was clearly intended to exhibit the peculiar powers of the singer. This opera was followed by 'Sosarme,' in which Montagnana had again an air 'Fra l'ombre e l'orrori,' in which the depth, power, and mellow quality of his voice, and his rare accuracy of intonation in hitting distant and difficult intervals, were displayed to full advantage. In the same year he sang in Handel's 'Acis,' a revival of 'Alessandro,' 'Flavio,' 'Coriolano,' and in 'Esther.' In 1733 Montagnana took part in 'Deborah,' 'Tolomeo,' 'Ottone,' 'Orlando,' and 'Athaliah' (at Oxford). In 'Orlando' he had another very difficult song composed expressly for him, 'Sorge infausta,' which has remained a trial of compass and execution, since his day, for the most accomplished bassi.
In the following year, however, Montagnana seceded, with Senesino and Cuzzoni, to the Theatre in Lincoln's-Inn-Fields, under the direction of Porpora; and here he appeared in 'Onorio' by that master, and other pieces. In 1735 and 36 he was still with Porpora, singing in his 'Polifemo,' and the 'Adriano' of Veracini. In January, 1738, he returned to his allegiance to Handel, singing in 'Faramondo' then first produced, 'La Conquista del Velio d'Oro,' and 'Serse.' After this we hear no more of Montagnana.