Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Baroque music with George Frideric Handel's captivating album, featuring three remarkable works that showcase the composer's early genius and enduring mastery. At the heart of this collection is "Dixit Dominus," Handel's earliest dated composition, penned when he was just 22 years old. This grand choral work, based on Psalm 109, is a stunning display of Handel's ability to blend intricate counterpoint with powerful emotional expression.
Complementing "Dixit Dominus" are two shorter yet equally enchanting pieces: "Nisi Dominus," a setting of Psalm 126 (127), and the devotional "Salve Regina." These works offer a glimpse into Handel's versatility and his profound understanding of sacred music. "Nisi Dominus" is a serene and contemplative piece, while "Salve Regina" is a deeply moving antiphon that highlights Handel's gift for creating memorable melodies.
Recorded in 1988 by Archiv Produktion, this album captures the essence of Handel's music with clarity and precision. The performances are brought to life by a stellar ensemble, featuring soloists and choir whose voices blend harmoniously to create a rich and immersive soundscape. The album's duration of 56 minutes makes it a perfect introduction to Handel's choral works or a delightful addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.
Whether you are a longtime admirer of Handel or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rewarding listening experience. It is a testament to Handel's enduring legacy and his ability to create music that transcends time and continues to inspire generations of listeners.
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: I. Dixit DominusGeorge Frideric Handel, Arleen Auger, Lynne Dawson, Diana Montague, Leigh Nixon, Simon Birchall, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: II. Virgam virtutis tuaeGeorge Frideric Handel, Diana Montague, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: III. Tecum principium in die virtutisGeorge Frideric Handel, Arleen Auger, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: IV. Juravit DominusGeorge Frideric Handel, Arleen Auger, Lynne Dawson, Diana Montague, Leigh Nixon, Simon Birchall, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: V. Tu es sacerdos in aeternumGeorge Frideric Handel, Arleen Auger, Lynne Dawson, Diana Montague, Leigh Nixon, Simon Birchall, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: VIa. Dominus a dextris tuisGeorge Frideric Handel, Arleen Auger, Lynne Dawson, Diana Montague, Leigh Nixon, Simon Birchall, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: VIb. Judicabit in nationibus – VIc. ConquassabitGeorge Frideric Handel, Arleen Auger, Lynne Dawson, Diana Montague, Leigh Nixon, Simon Birchall, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: VII. De torrente in via bibetGeorge Frideric Handel, Arleen Auger, Lynne Dawson, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: VIII. Gloria Patri, et FilioGeorge Frideric Handel, Arleen Auger, Lynne Dawson, Diana Montague, Leigh Nixon, Simon Birchall, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Nisi Dominus, Psalm 126 (127) HWV 238: 1. Nisi DominusGeorge Frideric Handel, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Nisi Dominus, Psalm 126 (127) HWV 238: 2. Vanum estGeorge Frideric Handel, John Mark Ainsley, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston
Nisi Dominus, Psalm 126 (127) HWV 238: 3. Cum dederit dilectis suis somnumGeorge Frideric Handel, Diana Montague, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston
Nisi Dominus, Psalm 126 (127) HWV 238: 4. Sicut sagittae in manu potentis (Allegro)George Frideric Handel, Simon Birchall, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston
Nisi Dominus, Psalm 126 (127) HWV 238: 5. Beatus virGeorge Frideric Handel, John Mark Ainsley, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston
Nisi Dominus, Psalm 126 (127) HWV 238: 6. Gloria PatriGeorge Frideric Handel, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Salve Regina, HWV 241: Salve ReginaGeorge Frideric Handel, Arleen Auger, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston
Salve Regina HWV 241: Ad te clamamusGeorge Frideric Handel, Arleen Auger, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston
Salve Regina HWV 241: Eia ergo, advocata nostroGeorge Frideric Handel, Arleen Auger, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston
Salve Regina HWV 241: O clemens, o piaGeorge Frideric Handel, Arleen Auger, Orchestra of Westminster Abbey, Simon Preston
George Frideric Handel, born in 1685 in Halle, Germany, is one of the most celebrated composers of the Baroque era, renowned for his enduring influence on classical music. His prolific career spanned various genres, including operas, oratorios, anthems, and concerti grossi. Handel's compositions, such as the iconic 'Water Music' and 'Music for the Royal Fireworks', continue to captivate audiences today. After settling in London in 1712, he became a prominent figure in British musical life, leaving an indelible mark on the country's cultural landscape. Handel's works are celebrated for their grandeur and emotional depth, making him a cornerstone of the Baroque period and a symbol of European musical heritage. His final resting place is in the south transept of Westminster Abbey, a testament to his enduring legacy.
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George Frideric Handel
