Dive into the enchanting world of Baroque opera with "Handel: Enchantresses," a captivating album featuring the mesmerizing soprano Sandrine Piau, accompanied by Les Paladins and conductor Jérôme Correas. This collection, released on January 7, 2022, by Alpha Classics, showcases the genius of George Frideric Handel through a selection of arias and instrumental pieces that highlight the composer's mastery of drama and melody.
The album spans Handel's operatic career, from the early "Rinaldo" to the later "Alcina," offering a rich tapestry of characters and stories. Sandrine Piau, known for her exquisite interpretations of Handel's music, brings to life powerful, often wounded women—queens, sorceresses, and sirens—each with her unique voice and narrative. The arias, such as "Ah! mio cor!" from "Alcina" and "Piangerò la sorte mia" from "Giulio Cesare," demonstrate Piau's vocal prowess and her ability to convey the depth and complexity of these roles.
In addition to the operatic arias, the album includes concerti grossi from Handel's Op. 6, providing a contrast and balance to the vocal pieces. The instrumental tracks, performed with sensitivity and virtuosity, showcase the composer's skill in orchestration and his ability to evoke a range of moods and atmospheres.
"Handel: Enchantresses" is a testament to the enduring appeal of Handel's music and the artistry of Sandrine Piau. Whether you're a seasoned Handel enthusiast or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a compelling introduction to the composer's operatic world and the enchanting characters that inhabit it. With a duration of just over an hour, it's an album that invites repeated listening and discovery.
Vinylscout