The first successful composer of opera is Claudio Monteverdi, known for his groundbreaking work Orfeo , which premiered in 1607. His contributions introduced emotional depth and complexity to opera, distinguishing him from earlier composers like Jacopo Peri and Giulio Caccini. Therefore, the answer is D. Claudio Monteverdi.
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Claudio Monteverdi is recognized as the first successful composer of opera, particularly known for his groundbreaking work, Orfeo . His contributions significantly shaped the genre's development, emphasizing emotional depth and complex storytelling. While earlier composers like Peri and Caccini laid the groundwork, Monteverdi defined what opera could be. ;