Ottorino Respighi (1879-1936) was born in Bologna, less than a decade after Italy gained its independence. The optimism of a young nation runs through many of his compositions. Although he wrote operas and ballets, including Belfagor and Belkis, regina di Saba (Belkis, Queen of Sheba), he’s best known for his orchestral tone poems. Respighi evoked vibrant impressions of Rome past and present in Fontane di Roma, Feste romane, and Pini di Roma, including a Roman legion on the march. He reinforced his reputation with other colorful symphonic scores, Impressioni brasiliane (Brazilian Impressions), and Gli uccelli (The Birds) among them.