In Italy, the young Handel was captivated by the mastery of Alessandro Scarlatti and Arcangelo Corelli, who were towering figures as composers and musicians with profound aesthetic ideals.
Historical Context
Handel's immersion in Italian culture was so complete that he even composed sacred music for Catholic services, despite being of Lutheran faith.
Composition History
Of the nine works on this recording, eight belong to Handel's Italian period (1707-1709), while 'Va, speme infida' may also have an earlier composition date despite appearing in a Hanover manuscript.
Recording & Production
The harpsichord used in this recording was loaned by Ton Koopman, a renowned Dutch conductor and organist.
Composer Biography
George Frideric Handel, the composer, arrived in Italy in 1706 at barely twenty years of age, with limited experience, making his rapid artistic development there particularly astonishing.
Composition History
Handel's Italian sojourn ignited a unique creative intensity that lasted his entire life, resulting in approximately 150 cantatas, two melodramas, two oratorios, and other works in just three and a half years.
Compositional Technique
Handel's chamber duets and trios, while sensual, maintain a 'controlled' sensuality adapted to the imitative processes typical of counterpoint.
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