The figure of George Frideric Handel cast a long shadow over musical London in the first half of the eighteenth century; casting many of his contemporaries - fine composers themselves - into centuries of obscurity. This recording throws light into forgotten corners and discovers some glittering gems; some of them demanding dazzling vocal fireworks from their performers. Several of these composers set scenes from Classical mythology or Old Testament narratives - but they also explore the underside of the Baroque psyche in one of David's darkest psalms and in a representation of Arcadian madness.
38 Recitative : Where Yelling and Howling and Grumbling and Growling [01:06]
39 Aria: To Some Peaceful Plain Convey Me [01:05]
40 Prelude in a Minor [03:00]
41 Duet: Blessed Are Those That Are Undefiled [01:08]
42 Recitative: Thou Hast Charged [00:26]
43 Aria: O That My Ways Were Made So Direct [01:52]
44 Duetto: Then Will I Talk of Thy Commandments [02:14
The figure of George Frideric Handel cast a long shadow over musical London in the first half of the eighteenth century; casting many of his contemporaries - fine composers themselves - into centuries of obscurity. This recording throws light into forgotten corners and discovers some glittering gems; some of them demanding dazzling vocal fireworks from their performers. Several of these composers set scenes from Classical mythology or Old Testament narratives - but they also explore the underside of the Baroque psyche in one of David's darkest psalms and in a representation of Arcadian madness.
