Mercadante (1795- 1870) was an Italian composer, an author of about 60 operas, many symphonic and chamber works, and also a vocal professor and a director of Conservatory in Naples..."12 Melodies for Voice and Piano" ("12 Melodie"), presented in this collection, were written by composer for Teresa Tietiens (1831 1877), German opera singer (soprano), one of the most celebrated primadonnas of her time...The book is intended for singers, students of vocal departments of conservatories and musical colledges, for vocal teachers.