Famous Handel Songs And Arias

Dive into the timeless elegance of Baroque master George Frideric Handel with "Famous Handel Songs And Arias," a captivating collection of his most beloved arias and choruses. Released in 2000, this album showcases Handel's unparalleled genius, featuring iconic pieces from his vast repertoire of operas, oratorios, and instrumental works.

The album opens with the enchanting "Ombra Mai Fu" from "Xerxes," a testament to Handel's ability to evoke deep sentiment through music. It continues with the pastoral beauty of "Love In Her Eyes Sits Playing" from "Acis And Galatea," a work celebrated as the pinnacle of English pastoral opera. The album also includes the serene "Silent Worship" from "Ptolemy," and the poignant "Deeper And Deeper Still" from "Jephtha," demonstrating Handel's mastery of vocal expression.

Fans of Handel's oratorios will delight in the inclusion of "Comfort Ye, My People" and "Every Valley Shall Be Exalted" from his magnum opus, "Messiah." These pieces, along with the regal "Where'er You Walk" from "Semele," highlight Handel's ability to convey both spiritual depth and dramatic intensity.

The album concludes with powerful excerpts from "Judas Maccabeus," including "Thanks To My Brethren / How Vain Is Man" and "My Arms Against This Gorgias Will I Go / Sound An Alarm," showcasing Handel's skill in crafting stirring choral works. With a duration of just 39 minutes, this album is a concise yet comprehensive introduction to Handel's genius, perfect for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts of classical music.

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.