GEORGE FRIDERIC HANDEL

 

Esther

 

Oratorio

 

Rosemary Joshua

James Bowman

Susan Bickley

Christopher Purves

Rebecca Outram

Andrew Kennedy

 

London Handel Choir / Laurence Cummings

 

Laurence Cummings conducts a first class line up of soloists. A world premiere recording of Handel’s Oratorio “Esther” to be released in the 1732 revised version.

 

“This first-ever recording is immensely impressive, with fine singing from a starry line-up of principals and wonderfully taut and expressive performances from choir and orchestra alike.” Observer, 25^th November 2007

 

“The performance, live from Handel’s church, St George’s Hanover Square, in 2002 is exceptional with outstanding solo work…It is hard to imagine a more splendid first recording.” The Sunday Times, 6th January 2008, Disc of the Week.

 

“The London Handel Orchestra and Choir respond with radiant style - the grandeur and nobility of the Zadok music is overwhelming – and the soloists are all good…but the biggest surprise is the Countertenor James Bowman, who is still singing with agility and control in his 60s. All of which makes this easily the most satisfying Handel recording of the past 12 months.” Financial Times, 12/01/08

 

Editor’s Choice, Gramophone January 2008

 

Somm 2cds SOMM238-9