Immerse yourself in the timeless masterpiece "Athalia" by George Frideric Handel, a baroque opera that showcases the composer's unparalleled skill in choral and vocal writing. Released in 1986 by Decca Music Group Ltd., this album captures the essence of Handel's dramatic and emotional depth, with a performance that is both powerful and nuanced.
"Athalia" is a three-act opera that tells the story of the biblical queen Athalia, based on the libretto by Samuel Johnson. The opera is a rich tapestry of arias, duets, and choruses, each piece meticulously crafted to convey the drama and passion of the narrative. Handel's music, characterized by its intricate melodies and harmonies, is brought to life by a stellar cast of vocalists and musicians, creating an unforgettable listening experience.
The album spans over two hours, offering a comprehensive journey through Handel's musical genius. From the opening sinfonia to the triumphant final chorus, each track is a testament to Handel's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions and moods. The choral sections, in particular, are a highlight, showcasing the grandeur and majesty of Handel's choral writing.
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Athalia" is an album that will captivate and inspire. Handel's timeless music, combined with the exquisite performances, makes this a recording that will be cherished for years to come.
Tracks
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: SinfoniaGeorge Frideric Handel, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "Blooming virgins, spotless train"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "The rising world Jehovah crown'd"George Frideric Handel, Choir of New College, Oxford, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "Tyrants would in impious throngs"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Choir of New College, Oxford, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "When he is in his wrath reveal'd"George Frideric Handel, David Thomas, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "Your sacred songs awhile forbear"George Frideric Handel, James Bowman, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "What scenes of horror round me rise!"George Frideric Handel, Dame Joan Sutherland, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "The gods, who chosen blessings shed"George Frideric Handel, Choir of New College, Oxford, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "Cheer her, O Baal"George Frideric Handel, Choir of New College, Oxford, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "Gentle airs, melodious strains!"George Frideric Handel, Anthony Rolfe Johnson, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "Softest sounds no more can ease me"George Frideric Handel, Dame Joan Sutherland, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "The traitor if you there descry...My Josabeth!"George Frideric Handel, James Bowman, Choir of New College, Oxford, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "Faithful cares in vain extended"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 1: "Gloomy tyrants, we disdain"George Frideric Handel, James Bowman, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 2: "The mighty pow'r"George Frideric Handel, Choir of New College, Oxford, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 2: "Through the land so lovely blooming"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 2: "Ah, canst thou but prove me!"George Frideric Handel, Dame Joan Sutherland, David Thomas, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 2: "Will God, whose mercies ever flow"George Frideric Handel, Aled Jones, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 2: "My vengeance awakes me"George Frideric Handel, Dame Joan Sutherland, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 2: "My spirits fail, I faint, I die!"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Aled Jones, James Bowman, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 2: "Cease thy anguish, smile once more"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, James Bowman, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 2: "The clouded scene begins to clear"George Frideric Handel, Choir of New College, Oxford, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 3: "What sacred horrors shake my breast!"George Frideric Handel, James Bowman, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 3: "Unfold, great seer, what heav'n imparts"George Frideric Handel, Choir of New College, Oxford, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 3: "Let harmony breathe soft around"George Frideric Handel, James Bowman, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 3: "With firm united hearts"George Frideric Handel, Anthony Rolfe Johnson, Choir of New College, Oxford, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 3: "Soothing tyrant, falsely smiling"George Frideric Handel, Dame Joan Sutherland, Emma Kirkby, James Bowman, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 3: "Around let acclamations ring"George Frideric Handel, Choir of New College, Oxford, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 3: "Oppression, no longer I dread thee"George Frideric Handel, David Thomas, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 3: "Hark! His thunders round me roll"George Frideric Handel, Anthony Rolfe Johnson, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 3: "To darkness eternal"George Frideric Handel, Dame Joan Sutherland, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 3: "Now, Josabeth, thy fears are o'er!"George Frideric Handel, James Bowman, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Athalia, HWV 52 / Act 3: "Give glory to his awful name"George Frideric Handel, Choir of New College, Oxford, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
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