Immerse yourself in the rich, dramatic world of George Frideric Handel with his timeless opera "Giulio Cesare in Egitto," released on Farao Classics. This captivating two-hour and twenty-one-minute journey through Handel's masterful composition is a testament to the composer's genius and the enduring power of Baroque opera.
"Giulio Cesare in Egitto" is a story of love, power, and intrigue, set against the backdrop of ancient Egypt. The opera follows the legendary Julius Caesar as he navigates the treacherous political landscape of the Ptolemaic dynasty. With its intricate plot and memorable characters, this opera is a prime example of Handel's ability to blend compelling storytelling with breathtaking music.
The album features a stellar cast of vocalists, each bringing their unique talents to the stage. From the powerful arias of Caesar to the tender, melancholic melodies of Cleopatra, every performance is a showcase of vocal prowess and emotional depth. The choral work is equally impressive, with the ensemble delivering stunning harmonies that elevate the drama and enhance the overall listening experience.
Handel's score is a masterclass in orchestration, with the instrumental accompaniment perfectly complementing the vocal lines. The overture alone is a thrilling introduction to the opera, setting the stage for the dramatic events to come. Throughout the album, Handel's use of recurring motifs and leitmotifs adds a layer of complexity and cohesion to the music, making it a rewarding listen for both casual fans and seasoned opera enthusiasts.
"Giulio Cesare in Egitto" is not just an opera; it's a historical and cultural artifact that offers a glimpse into the world of 18th-century opera. Handel's innovative use of the da capo aria form, his incorporation of elements from French opera, and his ability to create memorable, character-driven music have solidified his place as one of the greatest composers of all time.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Handel or a newcomer to the world of opera, "Giulio Cesare in Egitto" is an album that demands your attention. With its powerful performances, stunning orchestration, and compelling story, it's a true gem in the world of classical music. So sit back, relax, and let the music of George Frideric Handel transport you to the world of ancient Egypt.
2013 Farao Classics2013 Farao Classics
Tracks
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17: Overture: Grave - AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 1: Viva il nostro Alcide (Chorus)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 1: Aria. Presto omai (Cesare)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 2: Curio, Cesare venne e vide (Cesare, Curio)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 3: Aria. Empio, diro tu sei (Cesare)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 4: Recitative. Madre! (Sesto, Cornelia)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 4: Aria. Priva son d'ogni conforto (Cornelia)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 4: Recitative. Vani sono i lamenti (Sesto)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 4: Aria. Svegliatevi nel core (Sesto)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 5: Recitative. Regina, infausti eventi! (Nireno, Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 5: Aria. Non disperar, chi sa? (Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 6: Recitative. Sire,Signor! (Achilla, Tolomeo)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 6: Aria. L'empio, sleale, indegno (Tolomeo)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 7: Accompagnato. Alma del gran Pompeo (Cesare)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 7: Qui nobile donzella (Cesare)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 8: Arioso. Nel tuo seno, amico sasso (Cornelia)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 8: Recitative. Ma che! Vile e negletta (Cornelia, Cleopatra, Nireno)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 8: Aria. Tu la mia stella sei (Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 9: Recitative. Cesare, alla tua destra (Tolomeo, Cesare)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 9: Aria. Va tacito e nascosto (Cesare)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 10: Recitative. Sire, con Sesto il figlio (Achille, Tolomeo, Cornelia)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 11: Aria. Tu sei il cor di questo core (Achilla)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 11: Recitative. Madre! (Sesto, Cornelia)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act I Scene 11: Duet. Son nata - O a lagrimar - Sospirar (Cornelia, Sesto)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 1: Recitative. Eseguisti, oh Niren, quanto t'imposi? (Cleopatra, Nireno)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II: SinfoniaGeorge Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 2: Giulio, che miri?George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 2: Aria. V'adoro, pupille (Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 2: Recitative. Vola, mio cor, al doce incanto … (Cesare, Nireno)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 2: Aria. Se in fiorito ameno prato (Cesare)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 3: Arioso. Deh. Piangete, oh mesti lumi (Cornelia)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 3: Recitative. Bella, non lagrimare! (Achilla, Cornelia)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 4: Aria. Si, spietata, il tuo rigore (Tolomeo)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 5: Recitative. Su, che si tarda? (Cornelia, Sesto)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 6: Aria. Cessa omai di sospirare! (Cornelia)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 6: Recitative. Figlio non e, che vendicar non cura (Sesto)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II: L'angue offeso mai riposa (Sesto)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 7: Esser qui deve in breve (Cesare)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 7: Venera bella (Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 7: Recitative. Che veggio, on numi? (Cesare, Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 8: Aria. Al lampo dell'armi (Cesare)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 8: Accompagnato. Che sento? (Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act II Scene 8: Aria. Se pietà di me non senti (Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act III: SinfoniaGeorge Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act III Scene 1: Recitative. Vinta cadesti al balenar di questo (Tolomeo, Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act III Scene 2: Aria. Domero la tua fierezza (Tolomeo)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act III Scene 3: Recitative. E pur così in un giorno (Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act III Scene 3: Aria. Piangero la sorte mia (Cleopatra)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act III Scene 4: Recitativo accompagnato: Dall'ondoso periglio and Aria. Aure, deh, per pieta (Cesare)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17, Act III Scene 4: Recitative. Cerco invan Tolomeo (Sesto, Achilla, Nireno)George Frideric Handel, Susan Gritton, Ann Murray, Patricia Bardon, Katarina Karnéus, Christopher Robson, Axel Köhler, Marcello Lippi, Jan Zinkler, Bavarian State Orchestra, Ivor Bolton