Title: Very fine version (but not quite stunning)
Product review: There have been so many awful (let's face it) recordings made, that this truly inspired work can seem at best, hackneyed, and at worst, utter dross. The major problem has usually been an almost Wagnerian approach to the singing (even in the choruses), and an orchestra that was both too large and too modern for the task.Here, at last, we have a version that uses period instruments tastefully, and yet with all the vigour we might have experienced when Handel supervised the first performance in Dublin. Perhaps the ornamentation is a little safe at times (oh for some really adventurous repeats!), but there's a lot to like about this performance, not least the phrasing and highly musical sense of line, and evocation of the lyric context (certainly the most emotional aspect of the work, when performed well).If you have yet to hear as Handel intended, then this CD is highly recommended!
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