Handel: The Occasional Oratorio

Experience the grandeur of George Frideric Handel's "The Occasional Oratorio," a monumental work composed in response to the Jacobite rebellion of 1745. This double album, released on Hyperion in 1995, offers a stunning 2 hours and 24 minutes of choral and operatic mastery, showcasing Handel's unparalleled ability to blend dramatic narrative with profound musical expression.

"The Occasional Oratorio" is a choral masterpiece that weaves together biblical narratives with contemporary political themes, reflecting the tumultuous times in which it was created. The work is divided into three acts, each filled with a rich tapestry of arias, choruses, and recitatives that bring the story to life. The album features a stellar cast of vocalists, including Susan Gritton, Lisa Milne, James Bowman, John Mark Ainsley, and Michael George, all accompanied by the renowned King's Consort and the Choir of New College, Oxford, under the direction of Robert King.

Handel's compositional genius is evident throughout, from the stirring overture to the triumphant choruses that conclude each act. The orchestral arrangements are both intricate and evocative, providing a powerful backdrop to the vocal performances. The libretto, attributed to Hamilton Newburgh, draws on Old Testament stories to comment on the struggles of the British against the Jacobite uprising, making this oratorio a historical and cultural artifact as well as a musical one.

This recording is a testament to Handel's enduring legacy and his ability to create music that resonates across centuries. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to Handel's works, "The Occasional Oratorio" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's meticulous production and the exceptional performances make it a standout in the genre of choral and operatic recordings.