Dive into the exquisite world of George Frideric Handel with "Eternal Heaven," a captivating collection of arias that redefines the traditional Handel album experience. Released on November 18, 2022, under the prestigious Warner Classics label, this album is a testament to Handel's timeless genius, featuring a stunning collaboration between the renowned countertenor Iestyn Davies and the French-Italian mezzo-soprano Lea Desandre.
"Eternal Heaven" spans a diverse range of Handel's operatic and choral works, from the majestic "Ode for the Birthday of Queen Anne" to the poignant arias from "Theodora" and "Semele." The album's 22 tracks, totaling 1 hour and 25 minutes, offer a rich tapestry of vocal artistry and musical brilliance. Conductor Thomas Dunford masterfully guides the ensemble, bringing out the depth and nuance of Handel's compositions.
This album is not just a compilation of arias; it's a celebration of Handel's enduring legacy, showcasing the power and beauty of his music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Handel's works, "Eternal Heaven" promises an unforgettable journey through some of the most exquisite vocal pieces ever composed. Immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies and let the sublime performances of Davies and Desandre transport you to a world of musical splendor.
Handel: Ode for the Birthday of Queen Anne, HWV 74: "Eternal Source of Light Divine"George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Iestyn Davies, Lea Desandre
Handel: Theodora, HWV 68, Act 2: "With Darkness Deep, as Is My Woe" (Theodora)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre
Handel: The Choice of Hercules, HWV 69: "Yet, Can I Hear That Dulcet Lay" (Hercules)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Iestyn Davies
Handel: Hercules, HWV 60, Act 2: "Joys of Freedom" (Dejanira, Iole)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Iestyn Davies, Lea Desandre
Handel: Theodora, HWV 68, Act 1: "As With Rosy Steps the Morn" (Irene)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre
Handel: Semele, HWV 58, Act 3: "Despair No More Shall Wound Me" (Athamas)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Iestyn Davies
Handel: Solomon, HWV 67, Act 3: "Will the Sun Forget to Streak" (Queen of Sheba)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre
Handel: Joseph and His Brethren, HWV 59, Act 3: "Prophetic Raptures Swell My Breast" (Asenath)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre
Handel: The Triumph of Time and Truth, HWV 71, Act 3: "Guardian Angels, Oh, Protect me" (Beauty)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre
Handel: Occasional Oratorio, HWV 62, Pt. 1: "Fly from the Threat’ning Vengeance, Fly!"George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre
Handel: Semele, HWV 58, Act 1: "You’ve Undone Me" (Ino, Athamas)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Iestyn Davies, Lea Desandre
Handel: Esther, HWV 50b, Act 2: "Who Calls My Parting Soul from Death?" (Esther, Ahasuerus)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Iestyn Davies, Lea Desandre
Handel: Semele, HWV 58, Act 3: "No, No, I’ll Take No Less" (Semele)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre