Barbara Strozzi was a 17th-century Italian composer and singer, born in 1619 in Venice. She is known for her significant contributions to the early Baroque music scene, particularly in the realm of vocal music. Strozzi was one of the few women of her time to gain recognition as a composer, producing a substantial body of work that includes arias, cantatas, and madrigals. Strozzi was raised in a cultured environment, which fostered her musical talents. She was associated with the Accademia degli Unisoni, a literary and musical academy, where she performed her compositions. Her works often explored themes of love and emotion, showcasing her unique voice and style in a male-dominated field.