Dive into the vibrant and unexpected with "Handel Goes Wild," a captivating exploration of George Frideric Handel's timeless compositions, reimagined by the innovative ensemble L'Arpeggiata under the direction of Christina Pluhar. Released in 2017 on Warner Classics, this album offers a fresh and dynamic interpretation of some of Handel's most beloved operatic arias, seamlessly blending baroque elegance with contemporary jazz and world music influences.
The album features a stunning array of tracks, including sumptuously reimagined versions of arias from Handel's iconic operas such as "Alcina," "Rinaldo," and "Semele." Each piece is meticulously arranged by Christina Pluhar, who brings a unique perspective to Handel's music, highlighting its inherent dynamism and versatility. The ensemble's baroque players collide with jazz and world music elements, creating a polished and engaging jam session that breathes new life into these classic compositions.
With a duration of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, "Handel Goes Wild" is a rich and immersive experience that showcases the ensemble's virtuosity and creativity. The album features the talents of Valer Sabadus on countertenor and Nuria Rial on soprano, whose voices soar above the intricate arrangements, adding depth and nuance to each performance. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious explorer of new musical territories, this album promises a delightful and unexpected journey through the world of Handel, reimagined for the modern ear.
Handel / Arr Pluhar: Venti, turbini (Aria di Rinaldo, from Rinaldo HWV 7)George Frideric Handel, Christina Pluhar, Valer Sabadus, L'Arpeggiata
Handel / Arr Pluhar: O sleep, why dost thou leave me (Aria di Semele, from Semele HWV 58)George Frideric Handel, Christina Pluhar, Núria Rial, L'Arpeggiata
Vivaldi / Arr Pluhar: Allegro (from Concerto in G minor, RV 157)Antonio Vivaldi, Christina Pluhar, L'Arpeggiata
Handel: Cara sposa (Aria di Rinaldo, from Rinaldo HWV 7)George Frideric Handel, Christina Pluhar, Valer Sabadus, L'Arpeggiata
Handel / Arr Pluhar: Where'er you walk (Aria di Semele, from Semele HWV 58)George Frideric Handel, Christina Pluhar, Núria Rial, L'Arpeggiata
Handel / Arr Pluhar: Sinfonia (The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba, from Solomon HWV 67)George Frideric Handel, Christina Pluhar, L'Arpeggiata
Handel / Arr Pluhar: Pena tiranna (Aria di Dardano, from Amadigi di Gaula HWV 11)George Frideric Handel, Christina Pluhar, Valer Sabadus, L'Arpeggiata
Handel / Arr Pluhar: Piangerò la sorte mia (Aria di Cleopatra, from Giulio Cesare in Egitto HWV 17)George Frideric Handel, Christina Pluhar, Núria Rial, L'Arpeggiata
Kapsberger: Canario (Improvisations based on Girolamo Kapsberger)Giovanni Girolamo Kapsberger, Christina Pluhar, L'Arpeggiata
Handel / Arr Pluhar: Verdi prati (Aria di Ruggiero, from Alcina HWV 34)George Frideric Handel, Christina Pluhar, Valer Sabadus, L'Arpeggiata
Handel / Arr Pluhar: Tu del Ciel ministro eletto (Aria di Bellezza, from Il trionfo del Tempo e del Disinganno HWV 46a)George Frideric Handel, Christina Pluhar, Núria Rial, L'Arpeggiata
Handel: Mi lusinga il dolce affetto (Aria di Ruggiero, from Alcina HWV 34)George Frideric Handel, Christina Pluhar, Valer Sabadus, L'Arpeggiata
Handel: Lascia ch'io pianga (Aria di Almirena, from Rinaldo HWV 7)George Frideric Handel, Christina Pluhar, L'Arpeggiata
Handel / Arr Pluhar: Ombra mai fu (Aria di Serse, from Serse HWV 40)George Frideric Handel, Christina Pluhar, Valer Sabadus, L'Arpeggiata