Indulge in the timeless elegance of George Frideric Handel with "Handel's Tea Time," a captivating collection of his finest works released on November 6, 2020, by Deutsche Harmonia Mundi. This album is a delightful blend of classical, choral, and operatic masterpieces, spanning a rich and engaging hour and sixteen minutes of pure musical bliss.
The album opens with the enchanting "Venus and Adonis, HWV 85," a beautiful cantata that showcases Handel's mastery of recitative and aria forms. The piece is followed by a stunning Concerto à quattro in D Minor, highlighting the composer's skill in instrumental composition. The album also features a selection of English Songs, including the lively "Bacchus" and the evocative "The Rapture," performed with exquisite vocal prowess.
Handel's virtuosity is further displayed in the Trio Sonata in G Major, HWV 384, a work that demonstrates his ability to create intricate and harmonious compositions for multiple instruments. The album also includes the dramatic cantata "Mi palpita il cor, HWV 132b," which features both recitative and aria sections, providing a rich tapestry of musical expression.
The album is not just a collection of Handel's works but also a celebration of his enduring legacy. It includes the famous "Suite in E Major, HWV 430," featuring the iconic "Air & Five Variations on 'The Harmonious Blacksmith,'" a piece that has captivated audiences for centuries. Additionally, the album features selections from Handel's opera "The Fairy Queen," including the hauntingly beautiful aria "O let me weep."
Performances on the album are brought to life by the talented soprano Dorothee Mields and the ensemble Die Freitagsakademie, who bring a fresh and vibrant energy to Handel's timeless compositions. Whether you are a seasoned Handel enthusiast or a newcomer to his music, "Handel's Tea Time" offers a delightful and enriching listening experience that showcases the genius of one of the greatest composers in history.
(P) 2020 Sony Music Entertainment Germany GmbH
Tracks
Venus and Adonis, HWV 85: I. Behold, where weeping Venus stands (Recitative)George Frideric Handel, Dorothee Mields, Die Freitagsakademie
Venus and Adonis, HWV 85: II. Dear Adonis, Beauty's Treasure (Aria)George Frideric Handel, Dorothee Mields, Die Freitagsakademie
Venus and Adonis, HWV 85: III. Thus, Queen of Beauty (Recitative)George Frideric Handel, Dorothee Mields, Die Freitagsakademie
Venus and Adonis, HWV 85: IV. Transporting, Joy, tormenting fears (Aria)George Frideric Handel, Dorothee Mields, Die Freitagsakademie
Concerto à quattro in D Minor, HWV deest: I. AdagioGeorge Frideric Handel, Die Freitagsakademie
Concerto à quattro in D Minor, HWV deest: II. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Die Freitagsakademie
Concerto à quattro in D Minor, HWV deest: III. LargoGeorge Frideric Handel, Die Freitagsakademie
Concerto à quattro in D Minor, HWV deest: IV. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Die Freitagsakademie
English Songs, HWV 228: No.4, BacchusGeorge Frideric Handel, Dorothee Mields, Die Freitagsakademie
English Songs, HWV 228: No.20, The RaptureGeorge Frideric Handel, Dorothee Mields, Die Freitagsakademie
Trio Sonata in G Major, HWV 384: I. AdagioGeorge Frideric Handel, Die Freitagsakademie
Trio Sonata in G Major, HWV 384: II. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Die Freitagsakademie
Trio Sonata in G Major, HWV 384: III. GraveGeorge Frideric Handel, Die Freitagsakademie
Trio Sonata in G Major, HWV 384: IV. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Die Freitagsakademie
Mi palpita il cor. HWV 132b: I. Mi palpita il cor (Recitative)George Frideric Handel, Dorothee Mields, Die Freitagsakademie
Mi palpita il cor. HWV 132b: II. Ho tanti affanni in petto (Aria)George Frideric Handel, Dorothee Mields, Die Freitagsakademie
Mi palpita il cor. HWV 132b: III. Clori, di te mir lagno (Recitative)George Frideric Handel, Dorothee Mields, Die Freitagsakademie
Mi palpita il cor. HWV 132b: IV. S'un di m'adora (Aria)George Frideric Handel, Dorothee Mields, Die Freitagsakademie
Suite in E Major, HWV 430: IV. Air & Five Variations on "The Harmonious Blacksmith"George Frideric Handel, Die Freitagsakademie
Flammende Rose, HWV 210George Frideric Handel, Dorothee Mields, Die Freitagsakademie
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.
Vinylscout
George Frideric Handel
