Dive into the resplendent world of Baroque master George Frideric Handel with this exquisite collection of his most celebrated choruses. Released in 2009, "Handel, G.F.: Great Choruses" is a testament to the composer's enduring genius, featuring 15 tracks that span his illustrious career. From the triumphant "Hallelujah!" chorus of "Messiah" to the powerful "Fall'n Is the Foe" from "Judas Maccabaeus," this album showcases Handel's unparalleled ability to evoke grandeur and drama through choral music.
Born in Germany and later becoming a naturalized British subject, Handel's compositions reflect a unique blend of German rigor and Italian flair, all infused with the grandeur of the British court. This album is a journey through some of his most iconic works, including excerpts from "Samson," "Belshazzar," and "Athalia," each piece a masterclass in Baroque composition.
The album opens with "Israel in Egypt" and closes with the triumphant "Hallelujah!" from "Messiah," providing a sweeping overview of Handel's choral prowess. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to Handel's music, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The performances are conducted by David Hill, ensuring a high standard of musicality and historical accuracy. Recorded by BIS, the album benefits from top-notch production values, making it a standout in any classical music collection.
2009 BIS2009 BIS
Tracks
Israel in Egypt, HWV 54, Pt. II: The people shall hearGeorge Frideric Handel, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Alexander's Feast, HWV 75, Pt. 1: The many rend the skiesGeorge Frideric Handel, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
L'Allegro, il Penseroso ed il Moderato, HWV 55, Pt. I: Or let the merry bells ring roundGeorge Frideric Handel, Carolyn Sampson, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Zadok the Priest, HWV 258George Frideric Handel, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: Hear, Jacob's God, JehovahGeorge Frideric Handel, Carolyn Sampson, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Air. Let the bright Seraphim in burning rowGeorge Frideric Handel, Carolyn Sampson, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Let their celestial concerts all uniteGeorge Frideric Handel, Carolyn Sampson, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Belshazzar, HWV 61, Act I: Recall, O King, thy rash commandGeorge Frideric Handel, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Athalia, HWV 52, Act II: The mighty pow'rGeorge Frideric Handel, Robin Blaze, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Hercules, HWV 60, Act II: Jealousy! Infernal pestGeorge Frideric Handel, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Joshua, HWV 64: See the conquering hero comesGeorge Frideric Handel, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Judas Maccabaeus, HWV 63, Pt. II: Fall'n Is the FoeGeorge Frideric Handel, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Solomon, HWV 67, Pt. I: May no rash intruderGeorge Frideric Handel, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Theodora, HWV 68, Act II: He saw the lovely youthGeorge Frideric Handel, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Messiah, HWV 56, Pt. II: Hallelujah!George Frideric Handel, The Bach Choir, English Concert, David Hill
Vinylscout
