Baroque opera

[Ciel_Rouge]

I suppose it is less frequently performed than romantic operas. Is it more challenging to sing? How would you define a set of baroque operas which form the essence of this operatic world? I only heard about Händel, Lully, Rameau, Vivaldi. Are there some essential titles and arias that I shouldn't miss? I mean, apart from Händel which is relatively widespread. But I get the impression that if one goes beyond Händel, one encounters an uncharted territory and there be dragons...

[The new erato]

Don't forget Italy besides Vivaldi, ie Scarlatti (whose operas I hope will be rediscovered those year) and a particular favorite of mine; the early baroque operas from Rome/Venedig of Monteverdi, Cavalli, Cavalierei, Cesti et al. Their more "down to earth" appraoch to storytelling (despite celestial themes), and their unforced singing, makes these operas totally different animals from the late baroque extravaganzas. Purcells masques (and Boyces sole opera) are also worth a look into.