Handel: Oh death where is thy sting (Messiah, HWV 56)

[ladytenor9876]

I thought the male alto was quite good. Since Handel may have used castrati in the staging of his works, the male alto's voice is in "tune" with the era in which the composition was written. The tenor seemed somewhat unsure of his tempo and his delivery at times seemed more in keeping with late 19th century operatic styles moe than the Baroque era. Nevertheless, the quality of this performance is waay above average. I can't wait to sing it next Sunday!

[neukolonist]

schöner, verliebter ins leben nicht denkbar denn hier!

no way better, no more love to live then here.

[goldenfilly]

this is such a nice version, i think this is the version i used to listen to when i was young

[grandadpoppyable]

Nearly as good as any Collegium outfit anywhere, and as spot on harmony as the Monteverdi choir.

[qantasCapt]

@grandadpoppyable - Nearly as good?? I think they're GREAT....if you can suggest a better version, I'll be happy to listen to it. Their voices work very well together - and the counter tenor has some serious ability. I can't imagine how he does it!

[merseybeat1963]

@qantasCapt The best version on you tube...but if you'd like to hear a better version then the 1985 DVD by the Ancient Academy of Music with Christopher Hogwood dancing under those Waterford Chandeliers at Westminster Abbey is the one.Paul Elliot and Carolyn Watkinson with Abbey Choir.Take Care

[merseybeat1963]

@qantasCapt Hi. I didn't know how to direct reply so I am posting here.

It is available on CD but the DVD is most preferable to see.

Kultur D2269 "G.F.Handel MESSIAH" The Choir of Westminster Abbey/The Academy of Ancient Music/Christopher Hogwood.

"In Handels day this was performed by fewer than 40 instrumentalists and a chorus,less than 30 strong,of boy trebles & men.That is the tradition C.Hogwood has returned in these performances on period or modern copies of those instruments." Take Care

[qantasCapt]

@merseybeat1963 - Hiya. Thanks for that info - I have purchased the double CD of this - the Antipodean version and I can't help it, but I still think it's the best I've heard. There is passion for the music, the soloists are all first class and the orchestra is bliss. Janet Baker & Elizabeth Harwood et al also come high on the list with their version that was recorded in the late 60's - early 70's with St. Martins in the Field. This one still wins hands down for me, though. Thanks Antony Walker!

[safarygirl]

@qantasCapt Hi thanks Antony..this really is wonderful I agree..I have shared it numerous times..all the best.

[jezebel1854]

Beautiful!

[aerycksmusic]

Excellent!

[AGDIRGIA]

Great recording