HANDEL: Judas Maccabeus

George Frideric Handel:Judas Maccabeus (1746):Dramatic oratorio in three acts;16 page booklet included.

CD One:Act I, Act II (opening)-Total Time:71:29-CDTwo: Act II (conclusion), Act III-Total Time: 72:25

Heather Harper, soprano;Helen Watts, contralto;Alexander Young, tenor;John Shirley-Quirk, baritone;Amor Artis Chorale;John McCarthy, conductor;Harold Lester, harpsichord and organ;English Chamber Orchestra;Johannes Somary, conductor

The bloody battle of Culloden in April 1746 ensured victory against the Pretender and Handel felt able to recommence work on "Judas Maccabeus", completing it in August 1746. The topicality of its subject was not lost on the public and the piece was a storming success (Lord Shaftesbury wrote of 'very great Applause') with numerous further performances given, many conducted by the composer himself. Special drums brought in from the Tower of London for "Sound an Alarm" excited comment at the first performance on 1 April 1747".
(James Murray)

"The solo singing is excellent with Alexander Young a ringing tenor, and Helen Watts singing the opening aria in Act III exquisitely. Very good recording... the effect is wholly natural - and a sense of commitment throughout from all departments."
The Penguin Guide to Classical CDs

"Helen Watts and John Shirley-Quirk remain outstanding singers of this repertory".
(Gramophone)