Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of George Frideric Handel's compositions with the album "Eternal Heaven," released on November 18, 2022, under Warner Classics. This captivating collection showcases the genius of Handel through a selection of his most revered works, spanning choral, opera, and orchestral masterpieces.
Featuring the exquisite performances of Thomas Dunford and his ensemble, along with the stellar contributions of vocalists Lea Desandre and Iestyn Davies, this album is a testament to Handel's enduring legacy. The tracklist is a journey through Handel's most celebrated oratorios and operas, including highlights from "Theodora," "Semele," "Hercules," and "Solomon," among others. Each piece is a masterclass in Baroque composition, showcasing Handel's unparalleled ability to blend drama, emotion, and musical brilliance.
The album opens with the radiant "Eternal Source of Light Divine" from the "Ode for the Birthday of Queen Anne," setting the stage for a rich tapestry of vocal and instrumental performances. From the hauntingly beautiful "With Darkness Deep, as Is My Woe" to the triumphant "Joys of Freedom," each track offers a unique glimpse into Handel's artistic prowess. The inclusion of instrumental pieces like the "Sarabande" from Suite No. 4 in D Minor adds a touch of instrumental elegance to the vocal extravaganza.
"Eternal Heaven" is not just an album; it's an experience that transcends time, inviting you to explore the depths of Handel's musical genius. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of Baroque music, this collection promises to enchant and inspire. With a duration of 1 hour and 25 minutes, it's a journey that will leave you in awe of Handel's timeless contributions to the world of music.
Handel: Ode for the Birthday of Queen Anne, HWV 74: "Eternal Source of Light Divine"George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Iestyn Davies, Lea Desandre
Handel: Theodora, HWV 68, Act 2: "With Darkness Deep, as Is My Woe" (Theodora)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre
Handel: The Choice of Hercules, HWV 69: "Yet, Can I Hear That Dulcet Lay" (Hercules)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Iestyn Davies
Handel: Hercules, HWV 60, Act 2: "Joys of Freedom" (Dejanira, Iole)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Iestyn Davies, Lea Desandre
Handel: Theodora, HWV 68, Act 1: "As With Rosy Steps the Morn" (Irene)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre
Handel: Semele, HWV 58, Act 3: "Despair No More Shall Wound Me" (Athamas)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Iestyn Davies
Handel: Solomon, HWV 67, Act 3: "Will the Sun Forget to Streak" (Queen of Sheba)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre
Handel: Joseph and His Brethren, HWV 59, Act 3: "Prophetic Raptures Swell My Breast" (Asenath)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre
Handel: The Triumph of Time and Truth, HWV 71, Act 3: "Guardian Angels, Oh, Protect me" (Beauty)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre
Handel: Occasional Oratorio, HWV 62, Pt. 1: "Fly from the Threat’ning Vengeance, Fly!"George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre
Handel: Semele, HWV 58, Act 1: "You’ve Undone Me" (Ino, Athamas)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Iestyn Davies, Lea Desandre
Handel: Esther, HWV 50b, Act 2: "Who Calls My Parting Soul from Death?" (Esther, Ahasuerus)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Iestyn Davies, Lea Desandre
Handel: Semele, HWV 58, Act 3: "No, No, I’ll Take No Less" (Semele)George Frideric Handel, Jupiter, Thomas Dunford, Lea Desandre