Handel's Solomon was not an immediate success after its 1749 premiere, remaining largely unperformed for two hundred years until its resurrection by Sir Thomas Beecham in 1955.
Critical Reception
Handel's oratorios were successful not only with the aristocracy but also with the petty bourgeoisie and lower classes, as evidenced by a baroness's servant enjoying a performance of Judas Maccabaeus.
Composition History
Handel, a shrewd manager, began selling individual tickets for his oratorios after 1747, which significantly increased audience numbers for works like Judas Maccabaeus.
Recording & Production
This live recording of Handel's Solomon was made at the Namur Concert Hall in Namur, Belgium, on July 28, 2022.
Recording & Production
This recording is dedicated to Kader Hassissi, the late Director of the Beaune International Baroque and Romantic Opera Festival, who died shortly after a memorable performance of this Solomon.
Historical Context
The librettist, Reverend Thomas Morell, adapted the biblical stories for Handel's oratorios to echo contemporary British political and military events, such as the Duke of Cumberland's triumphant return from Scotland.
Album & Artwork
The cover illustration for this album is 'The Judgement of Solomon' (ca 1750) by Francesco Fontebasso, an Italian painter.
