Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of George Frideric Handel's vocal masterpieces with this exquisite collection of arias and scenes for tenor. Recorded in 2007, this album features the renowned British tenor Mark Padmore, accompanied by the esteemed Baroque ensemble The English Concert, under the direction of Andrew Manze. Spanning a variety of Handel's oratorios and operas, this compilation showcases the composer's unparalleled ability to blend drama, lyricism, and pure vocal virtuosity.
The album opens with the serene beauty of "Enjoy the sweet Elysian grove" from Alceste, HWV 45, and traverses through iconic works such as Semele, Il trionfo del Tempo e del Disinganno, and Tamerlano. Highlights include the powerful arias from Samson, HWV 57, and the poignant scenes from Rodelinda, HWV 19. The album concludes with the enchanting "As steals the morn" from L'Allegro, Il Penseroso, ed il Moderato, HWV 55, leaving the listener with a sense of Handel's profound musical legacy.
With a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, this album is a testament to Handel's enduring appeal and the artistry of Mark Padmore. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to Handel's music, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album was released under the Harmonia Mundi label, ensuring the highest standards of audio quality and historical authenticity.
2007 harmonia mundi usa2007 harmonia mundi usa
Tracks
Alceste, HWV 45, Act IV: "Enjoy the sweet Elysian grove"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Semele, HWV 58, Act II Scene 3: "Where 'er you walk" (Jupiter)George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Il trionfo del Tempo e del Disinganno, HWV 46a,, Part I: "Ume voi"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Tamerlano, HWV 18, Act I Scene 1: "Forte e lieto"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Tamerlano, HWV 18, Act III Scene 10: "Oh per me lieto, avventuroso giorno!"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, Robin Blaze, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Tamerlano, HWV 18, Act III Scene 10: "Figlia mia / Tu, spietato"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Samson, HWV 57, Act I Scene 2: Total eclipseGeorge Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Samson, HWV 57, Act II Scene 2: "Did love constrain thee?"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Samson, HWV 57, Act II Scene 2: "Your charms to ruin led the way"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Samson, HWV 57, Act III Scene 1: "Let but that spirit / Then shall I make"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Samson, HWV 57, Act III Scene 1: "Thus when the sun from's wat'ry bed"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Rodelinda, HWV 19, Act III Scene 6: "Fatto inferno"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Rodelinda, HWV 19, Act III Scene 6: "Pastorello d'un povero armento"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Esther, HWV 50a, Act I Scene 2: "Tune your harps"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, Katharina Spreckelsen, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Jephtha, HWV 70, Act II Scene 2: "Heav'n smiles once more"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Jephtha, HWV 70, Act II Scene 2: "His mighty arm"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
Jephtha, HWV 70, Act III Scene 1: "Waft her, angels"George Frideric Handel, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
L'Allegro, Il Penseroso, ed il Moderato, HWV 55, Part III: "As steals the morn"George Frideric Handel, Lucy Crowe, Mark Padmore, The English Concert, Andrew Manze
George Frideric Handel, born in 1685 in Halle, Germany, is one of the most celebrated composers of the Baroque era, renowned for his enduring influence on classical music. His prolific career spanned various genres, including operas, oratorios, anthems, and concerti grossi. Handel's compositions, such as the iconic 'Water Music' and 'Music for the Royal Fireworks', continue to captivate audiences today. After settling in London in 1712, he became a prominent figure in British musical life, leaving an indelible mark on the country's cultural landscape. Handel's works are celebrated for their grandeur and emotional depth, making him a cornerstone of the Baroque period and a symbol of European musical heritage. His final resting place is in the south transept of Westminster Abbey, a testament to his enduring legacy.
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George Frideric Handel
