‘Farinelli’ was the stage name of Carlo Broschi, a famous castrato who triumphed in opera in the 18th century. At the age of 32 and at the height of his success, Farinelli retired to sing exclusively for Philip V, King of Spain (1700-1746). Twelve years earlier, Farinelli exhibited his musical talent in a public square. Handel, the official composer to the English court, who had attended the performance hidden in his carriage, proposed that Farinelli come to London. This meeting marked the beginning of a relationship marked by mutual hatred and admiration. After rejecting Handel’s advances, Farinelli toured Europe with his brother.