Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of George Frideric Handel's masterful compositions with "Handel: English Arias from the Oratorios." This captivating album, released on October 1, 1995, under the Hyperion label, is a treasure trove of classical, choral, and operatic brilliance. Spanning a rich 66 minutes, the album features a stunning collection of arias and duets from Handel's renowned oratorios, showcasing the composer's unparalleled ability to blend dramatic intensity with lyrical elegance.
From the soaring melodies of "The Choice of Hercules" to the tender duets of "Solomon," each track is a testament to Handel's enduring genius. The album opens with the enchanting "Yet, Can I Hear That Dulcet Lay" from "Hercules," setting the stage for a journey through some of Handel's most beloved works. Highlights include the powerful aria "Great God! Who, Yet But Darkly Known" from "Belshazzar" and the ethereal "The Raptur'd Soul" from "Theodora," demonstrating the composer's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music.
The album also features exquisite instrumental pieces, such as the overture from "Esther" and the martial symphony from "Belshazzar," adding depth and variety to the listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Handel's work, this album offers a compelling introduction to the composer's rich musical legacy. With its exquisite performances and impeccable production, "Handel: English Arias from the Oratorios" is a must-listen for anyone seeking to explore the timeless beauty of classical music.
The Choice of Hercules, HWV 69: No. 15, Air. Yet, Can I Hear That Dulcet Lay (Hercules)George Frideric Handel, The King's Consort, Robert King, James Bowman
Esther, HWV 50a, Scene 5: Air. How Can I Stay, When Love Invites? (Assuerus)George Frideric Handel, Robert King, The King's Consort, James Bowman
Saul, HWV 53, Act II: No. 56, Duet. O Fairest of Ten Thousand Fair (Michal/David)George Frideric Handel, Robert King, The King's Consort, Susan Gritton, James Bowman
Belshazzar, HWV 61, Act I: Aria. Great God! Who, Yet But Darkly Known (Cyrus)George Frideric Handel, The King's Consort, Robert King, James Bowman
Theodora, HWV 68, Act I, Scene 2: No. 9. Aria. The Raptur'd Soul (Didymus)George Frideric Handel, James Bowman, Robert King, The King's Consort
Judas Maccabaeus, HWV 63, Act III: No. 1, Air. Father of Heav'n! From Thy Eternal Throne (Priest)George Frideric Handel, James Bowman, The King's Consort, Robert King
Esther, HWV 50a, Scene 1: Overture. Andante – Larghetto – AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Robert King, The King's Consort
Saul, HWV 53, Act I: No. 32, Aria. O Lord, Whose Mercies Numberless (David)George Frideric Handel, The King's Consort, Robert King, James Bowman
Solomon, HWV 67, Act I: Aria. What Though I Trace Each Herb (Solomon)George Frideric Handel, James Bowman, The King's Consort, Robert King
Belshazzar, HWV 61, Act III Scene 3: A Martial Symphony – Aria. Destructive War, Thy Limits Know (Cyrus)George Frideric Handel, James Bowman, Robert King, The King's Consort
Solomon, HWV 67, Act I: Duet. Welcome as the Dawn of Day (Solomon/Solomon's Wife)George Frideric Handel, Robert King, The King's Consort, Susan Gritton, James Bowman
Theodora, HWV 68, Act I: Aria. Kind Heaven, If Virtue Be Thy Care (Didymus)George Frideric Handel, Robert King, James Bowman, The King's Consort
Solomon, HWV 67, Act I: Accompagnato. Almighty Pow'r (Solomon)George Frideric Handel, James Bowman, Robert King, The King's Consort
Esther, HWV 50a, Scene 2: Recit. Now Persecution Shall Lay by Her Iron Rod – Aria. Tune Your Harps to Cheerful Strains (1st Israelite)George Frideric Handel, James Bowman, Katharina Spreckelsen, Robert King, The King's Consort