Embark on a musical journey through the baroque era with George Frideric Handel's "Baroque Celebration." This captivating album, released on January 1, 1999, under the Chandos label, is a testament to Handel's enduring genius and his profound impact on classical music. Spanning a little over an hour, this collection of choral and operatic masterpieces showcases Handel's unparalleled ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his compositions.
The album features a diverse selection of arias and choruses from some of Handel's most celebrated works, including "Giulio Cesare," "Semele," "Rinaldo," and "Samson." Each piece is a gem in its own right, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Handel's musical legacy. From the hauntingly beautiful "Ombra mai fu" from "Serse" to the powerful and dramatic "I rage, I rage, I rage, I melt, I burn" from "Acis and Galatea," the album is a feast for the ears.
Handel's music is characterized by its intricate melodies, rich harmonies, and dynamic rhythms, all of which are on full display in this collection. The performances are nothing short of breathtaking, with each artist bringing their unique interpretation to these timeless pieces. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Baroque Celebration" is sure to leave you spellbound. Immerse yourself in the world of George Frideric Handel and discover the magic of baroque music.
2002 Chandos Records2002 Chandos Records
Tracks
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act V: Fairest isle (Venus)Henry Purcell, David Parry, Philharmonia Orchestra, Yvonne Kenny
The Indian Queen, Z. 630, Act I: I attempt from love's sickness (Aerial Spirit)Henry Purcell, David Parry, Philharmonia Orchestra, Yvonne Kenny
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act I Scene 1: Grief and woe all hope deny me (Cornelia)George Frideric Handel, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Sarah Walker
Semele, HWV 58, Act II Scene 2: Where'er you walk (Jupiter)George Frideric Handel, David Parry, Philharmonia Orchestra, Bruce Ford
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act II Scene 2: Wounded, the serpent ne'er reposes (Sextus)George Frideric Handel, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Della Jones
Acis and Galatea, HWV 49a, Act II: I rage, I rage, I rage, I melt, I burn (Polyphemus)George Frideric Handel, David Parry, Philharmonia Orchestra, John Tomlinson
Rinaldo, Act II: Hear thou my weeping (Lascia ch'io pianga) (Almirena)George Frideric Handel, David Parry, Philharmonia Orchestra, Yvonne Kenny
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act III Scene 1: I shall tame your pride unbending (Ptolemy)George Frideric Handel, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, James Bowman
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act III Scene 1: Flow, my tears (Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Valerie Masterson
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act I Scene 4: How silently, how slyly (Caesar)George Frideric Handel, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Janet Baker
Serse, HWV 40, Act I: May the Fates be kind (Ombra mai fu) (Serse)George Frideric Handel, David Parry, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Della Jones
Samson, HWV 57: Honour and arms scorn such a foe (Harapha)George Frideric Handel, David Parry, Philharmonia Orchestra, John Tomlinson
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act I Scene 4: Condemned to grieve and cry (Cornelia, Sextus)George Frideric Handel, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Sarah Walker, Della Jones
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act III Scene 2: Stormy winds my ship had shaken (Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Valerie Masterson
Orfeo ed Euridice, Wq. 30, Act III: What is life to me without thee (Che faro senza Euridice?) (Orfeo)Christoph Willibald Gluck, David Parry, Philharmonia Orchestra, Diana Montague
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