Nicholas McGegan, the music director and conductor, has been hailed as "one of the finest baroque conductors of his generation" by the London Independent.
Critical Reception
Despite its current neglect, Joseph and his Brethren was popular in Handel's lifetime, receiving a warm initial reception and revivals for decades.
Recording & Production
This recording of Handel's Joseph and his Brethren was made at the Scoring Stage, Skywalker Sound, in Nicasio, CA, in December 2017.
Interpretation
The role of Joseph underwent drastic transformations; originally conceived for soprano, Handel later changed it to male alto for the premiere, then back to soprano for subsequent seasons.
Historical Context
The story of Joseph was widely known in 18th-century England, appearing in sermons, popular poetic settings, and as a Latin primer for schoolchildren.
Album & Artwork
The cover art for this album is "Joseph and His Brethren: The Discovery of the Cup" by James Thornhill, an English painter from the late 17th and early 18th centuries.
Composition History
Handel's oratorio Joseph and his Brethren premiered in March 1744, following the successes of his earlier works Messiah, Samson, and Semele.
You might also enjoy...
Schütz: Historia der Geburt und Auferstehung Jesu Christi
Antonio Maria Bononcini – La decollazione di San Giovanni Battista
