Composer Michael William Balfe (1808-1870) composer 29 operas, and around 250 other pieces. He is best known for his opera The Bohemian Girl. Balfes opera Satanella was his 23rd opera, and was premiered at Covent Garden in 1858. The work is a hybrid of classical opera tradition and stand-alone songs. This release is performed by the John Powell Singers, and the Victorian Opera Orchestra under the direction of Richard Bonynge.