Opus Avantra are an Italian prog band from Venice that was formed in 1973 on the initiative of Donella Del Monaco (vocals, lyrics), Alfredo Tisocco (piano, keyboards and composer), Giorgio Bisotto (philosopher and "ideologist" of the band) and Renato Marengo (producer). The name of this project is an acronym that reflects the main sources of inspiration (Opera, Avant-garde, Tradition). The aim was to break the cultural barriers between classical and popular music blending opera with jazz, contemporary music and traditional melodies. The debut album of the band "Opus Avantra ? Donella Del Monaco" (also known as "Introspezione", from the title of the first track) was released in 1974 for the independent label Trident and was recorded with the help of some guest musicians like Tony Esposito (percussion), Luciano Tavella (flute), Enrico Professione (violin) and Pierdino Tisato (drums). It's a concept album about the sentimental education of a girl, a musical journey through the hidden feelings of a woman led by the magnificent Donella Del Monaco's vocals. Line-up / Musicians Donella Del Monaco/vocals Alfredo Tisocco/keyboards Luciano Tavella/flute Enrico Professione/violin Pieregidio Spiller/violin Riccardo Perraro/cello Pierdino Tisato/drums Tony Esposito/percussion,strumenti Discography(Album) Introspezione - Donella Del Monaco 1974
