Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of George Frideric Handel's masterful compositions with "Handel: English Arias from the Oratorios." Released in 1995, this exquisite collection showcases the genius of one of the Baroque era's most celebrated composers. Spanning a rich hour and six minutes, the album features fourteen meticulously crafted tracks, each a testament to Handel's unparalleled skill in blending vocal prowess with orchestral brilliance.
From the soaring arias of "The Choice of Hercules" to the poignant duets of "Saul," this album offers a comprehensive journey through Handel's oratorio repertoire. The performances, led by the incomparable James Bowman and The King's Consort under the direction of Robert King, bring a fresh and vibrant energy to these classic pieces. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an enriching experience, highlighting the enduring appeal of Handel's music.
The album's diverse selection includes iconic works such as "Esther," "Solomon," and "Theodora," each piece showcasing Handel's ability to convey deep human emotions through his music. The intricate harmonies and lyrical melodies are brought to life with stunning clarity, making this a quintessential addition to any music lover's collection. Dive into the world of Handel's English arias and discover the timeless beauty of his oratorios, performed with unmatched artistry and passion.
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