Handel's original orchestration for the Music for the Royal Fireworks was massive, calling for 9 trumpets, 9 horns, 24 oboes, 12 bassoons, contrabassoon, serpent, timpani, and side-drums.
Composition History
Handel's Water Music was performed outdoors during a royal barge party on the River Thames on July 17, 1717, for King George I and his entourage.
Interpretation
The English Concert, often in partnership with Deutsche Grammophon's Archiv label, pioneered a historically informed approach to old music, seeking to understand and employ Baroque performance styles and instruments.
Historical Context
Public rehearsals for Handel's Music for the Royal Fireworks caused a traffic jam on London Bridge, indicating its immense popularity even before the official event.
Notable Performances
King George I enjoyed Handel's Water Music so much that he requested it be repeated three more times during the royal barge party.
Composition History
Handel's Music for the Royal Fireworks was composed for an elaborate public firework display in London's Green Park on April 27, 1749, celebrating the peace treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle.
Performer Biography
The English Concert, a period-instrument orchestra, was founded in 1973 by harpsichordist Trevor Pinnock, who directs these recordings.
