Handel: Messiah

Featuring

Hilary Cronin
Helen Charlston
Alexander Chance
Nathan Mercieca
Guy Cutting
Frederick Long

Edward Grint
Peter Whelan
Irish Baroque Choir
Irish Baroque Orchestra
George Frideric Handel

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Historical Context

In the mid-18th century, Dublin was the 11th largest city in Europe and second only to London in the British Isles, attracting musicians like Francesco Geminiani.

Critical Reception

The first London performance of Messiah in 1743 faced controversy from religious quarters due to its premiere in a theatre, unlike its successful Dublin reception.

Notable Performances

The premiere of Handel's Messiah in Dublin on April 13, 1742, was a charity matinee for imprisoned debtors and hospitals, with attendees asked to remove hoops and swords to make more room.

Composition History

Handel's career reached a crossroads in 1741, as public taste shifted away from Italian opera seria, prompting him to focus on English-language oratorios.

Interpretation

This recording includes the alto duet/chorus 'How beautiful are the feet,' composed specifically for two countertenors from the Dublin cathedrals and performed at the premiere.

Historical Context

Handel's decision to visit Dublin in 1741 was prompted by an invitation from Lord Devonshire, the Lord-Lieutenant, to give charity concerts.

Interpretation

This recording of Messiah by the Irish Baroque Orchestra aims to evoke the intimate scale and theatrical atmosphere of the 1742 Dublin debut performance.