Immerse yourself in the powerful and dramatic world of George Frideric Handel's "Samson," a timeless masterpiece that showcases the composer's unparalleled skill in blending choral, operatic, and orchestral elements. Released on May 2, 2000, this album is a testament to Handel's enduring legacy in the classical music genre, offering a rich and immersive experience that spans over two hours and thirty-four minutes.
"Samson" is an oratorio based on the biblical story of Samson and Delilah, featuring a compelling narrative that unfolds through a series of recitatives, arias, and choruses. The album is divided into three acts, each filled with intense drama, profound emotions, and stunning musical compositions. Handel's ability to convey the depth of human experience through music is evident in every track, from the triumphant "Of First Created Beam" to the hauntingly beautiful "With Might Endu'd - The Holy One Of Israel."
The album features a stellar cast of vocalists and musicians, bringing Handel's score to life with their exceptional talent and artistry. The choral sections, in particular, are a highlight, showcasing the powerful and emotive singing of the Israelite and Philistine choruses. The orchestral arrangements are equally impressive, with Handel's intricate and dynamic compositions beautifully rendered by the accompanying ensemble.
"Samson" is not just an album; it's a journey through the highs and lows of human emotion, set against the backdrop of one of the most dramatic stories in the Bible. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
(C) 2000 K&K Verlagsanstalt - Josef-Stefan Kindler and Andreas Otto Grimminger
Tracks
Samson, HWV 57, Act I: OvertureGeorge Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act I: This Day A Solemn Feast To Dagon Held (Recit. Samson) - Awake The Trumpet's Lofty Sound! (Chorus of Philistines)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act I: Ye Men Of Gaza (Air Philistine Woman) - Awake The Trumpet's Lofty Sound! (Chorus Of Philistines)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act I: Why By An Angel Was My Birth Foretold (Recit. Samson & Micah) - Total Eclipse! No Sun, No Moon! (Air Samson)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act I: Of First Created Beam (Chorus Of Israelites)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act I: Brethren And Men Of Dan, Say (Recit. Manoah & Micah)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act I: Thy Glorious Deeds Inspir'd My Tongue (Air Manoah)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act I: Justly These Evils (Recit. Samson) - Why Does The God Of Israel Sleep? (Air Samson)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act I: Then Shall They Know (Chorus Of Israelites)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act I: For Thee, My Dearest Son (Recit. Manoah & Samson) - My Genial Spirits Droop (Accomp. Samson)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act I: Then Long Eternity - Joys That Are Pure, Sincerely Good (Recit. & Air Micah)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act I: Then Round About The Starry Throne (Chorus Of Israelites)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: Just Are The Ways Of God To Man (Air Manoah) - My Evils Hopeless Are! (Recit. Samson & Micah)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: Return, O God Of Hosts! (Air Micah) - To Dust His Glory They Would Tread (Chorus Of Israelites)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: But Who Is This, That So Bedeck'd And Gay (Recit. Micah, Samson, Dalila)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: With Plaintive Notes And Am'rous Moan (Air Dalila)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: My/Her Faith And Truth, O Samson, Prove (Air Dalila & Chorus Of Virgins)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: To Fleeting Pleasures Make Your Court (Air Dalila)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: Ne'er Think Of That (Samson) - Traitor To Love! (Duet Dalila & Samson)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: To Man God's Universal Law (Chorus Of Israelites)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: No Words Of Peace (Recit. Micah, Harapha, Samson)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: Honour And Arms Scorn Such A Foe (Air Harapha)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: Go, Baffled Coward (Duet Samson, Harapha)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: Here Lies The Proof (Micah) - Hear, Jacob's God, Jehovah! (Chorus Of Israelites)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: Dagon, Arise! (Harapha) - To Song And Dance We Give The Day (Chorus Of Philistines)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: Fix'd In His Everlasting Seat (Choruses Of Israelites & Philistines)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: More Trouble Is Behind (Recit. Micah, Samson, Harapha)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Presuming Slave! (Air Harapha)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Reflect Then, Samson (Recit. Micah, Samson)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: With Thunder Arm'd, Great God, Arise! (Chorus Of Israelites)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Be Of Good Courage (Recit. Samson, Micah, Harapha)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Thus When The Sun From's Wat'ry Bed (Air Samson)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: With Might Endu'd - The Holy One Of Israel (Air) - To Fame Immortal Go (Chorus Of Israelites)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Old Manoah, With Youthful Steps (Recit. Micah, Manoah)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Great Dagon Has Subdu'd Our Foe (Chorus Of Philistines) - What Noise Of Joy (Recit. Manoah, Micah)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: How Willing My Paternal Love (Air Manoah)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Your Hopes (Micah, Manoah) - A Symphony Of Horror And Confusion - Hear Us, Our God! (Chorus Of Philistines)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Where Shall I Run (Recit. Messenger, Micah, Manoah)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Ye Sons Of Israel, Now Lament (Air Micah) - Weep, Israel, A Louder Strain (Chorus Of Israelites)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Proceed We Hence (Manoah) - Symphony: Dead March - The Body Comes (Micah, Manoah)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Glorious Hero, May Thy Grave (Air Manoah & Chorus Of Israelites & Soli)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Let The Bright Seraphim In Burning Row (Air Israelite Woman)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq
Samson, HWV 57, Act III: Let Their Celestial Concerts All Unite (Chorus Of Israelites)George Frideric Handel, Monastery Baroque Orchestra, Maulbronn Chamber Choir, Jurgen Budday, Sinead Pratschke, Michael Chance, Raimund Nolte, David Thomas, Mark Le Brocq