Dive into the rich tapestry of Baroque master George Frideric Handel's compositions with this exquisite collection, "Handel: Italian Cantatas & Trio Sonatas." Released in 1998, this album showcases Handel's virtuosity and innovation, featuring a blend of instrumental and vocal works that highlight his versatility and genius.
The album opens with the enchanting Trio Sonata in G Major, Op. 5 No. 4, a piece that exemplifies Handel's mastery of the sonata form. The sonata's movements, from the lively Allegro to the stately Passacaille, demonstrate Handel's ability to evoke a range of moods and atmospheres. The sonata is followed by the dramatic cantata "Tra le fiamme," where Handel's operatic flair shines through in the passionate arias and recitatives.
The album also includes the Trio Sonata in B-Flat Major, Op. 5 No. 7, another gem from Handel's sonata collection, and the Trio Sonata in G Minor, Op. 2 No. 5, which showcases Handel's early compositional style. The cantata "Notte Placida e Cheta" rounds out the collection, offering a serene contrast to the more dramatic works on the album.
Performed by the Purcell Quartet and featuring the vocal talents of Catherine Bott, this album is a testament to Handel's enduring appeal and the timeless beauty of his music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a captivating journey through the world of Handel, one of the most influential composers in history. With a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, this album is a perfect way to spend an hour enjoying the works of Handel.
1998 Chandos Records1998 Chandos Records
Tracks
Trio Sonata in G Major, Op. 5 No. 4, HWV 399: I. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Trio Sonata in G Major, Op. 5 No. 4, HWV 399: II. A tempo ordinario - Allegro non prestoGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Trio Sonata in G Major, Op. 5 No. 4, HWV 399: III. PassacailleGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Trio Sonata in G Major, Op. 5 No. 4, HWV 399: IV. Gigue. PrestoGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Trio Sonata in G Major, Op. 5 No. 4, HWV 399: V. Menuet. Allegro moderatoGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Tra le fiamme, HWV 170: Aria. Tra le fiammeGeorge Frideric Handel, Catherine Bott, Jonathan Manson, Caroline Kershaw, Jane Downer, Tim Amherst
Tra le fiamme, HWV 170: Recitativo. Dedalo già le fortunate penne - Aria. Pien di nuovo e bel dilettoGeorge Frideric Handel, Catherine Bott, Jonathan Manson, Caroline Kershaw, Jane Downer, Tim Amherst
Tra le fiamme, HWV 170: Recitativo. Sì, sì, pur troppo è vero - Aria. Voli per l'ariaGeorge Frideric Handel, Catherine Bott, Jonathan Manson, Caroline Kershaw, Jane Downer, Tim Amherst
Tra le fiamme, HWV 170: Recitativo. L'uomo che nacque per salire - Aria. Tra le fiammeGeorge Frideric Handel, Catherine Bott, Jonathan Manson, Caroline Kershaw, Jane Downer, Tim Amherst
Trio Sonata in B-Flat Major, Op. 5 No. 7, HWV 402: I. LarghettoGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Trio Sonata in B-Flat Major, Op. 5 No. 7, HWV 402: II. Allegro, ma non prestoGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Trio Sonata in B-Flat Major, Op. 5 No. 7, HWV 402: III. Adagio - AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Trio Sonata in B-Flat Major, Op. 5 No. 7, HWV 402: IV. Gavotte. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Trio Sonata in B-Flat Major, Op. 5 No. 7, HWV 402: V. Menuet. Andante allegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Notte Placida e Cheta, HWV 142: Recitativo. Notte placida e cheta - Aria. Zeffiretti, deh veniteGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet, Catherine Bott
Notte Placida e Cheta, HWV 142: Recitativo. Momento fortunato - Aria. Per un istanteGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet, Catherine Bott
Notte Placida e Cheta, HWV 142: Recitativo accompagnato. Ma già sento - Aria. Luci belleGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet, Catherine Bott
Notte Placida e Cheta, HWV 142: Recitativo accompagnato. Oh delizie d'amor - Aria. Che non di da quaGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet, Catherine Bott
Trio Sonata in G Minor, Op. 2 No. 5, HWV 390a: I. LarghettoGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Trio Sonata in G Minor, Op. 2 No. 5, HWV 390a: II. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Trio Sonata in G Minor, Op. 2 No. 5, HWV 390a: III. AdagioGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
Trio Sonata in G Minor, Op. 2 No. 5, HWV 390a: IV. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Purcell Quartet
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.
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George Frideric Handel
