Handel's Last Prima Donna: Giulia Frasi in London

Featuring

Laurence Cummings
Ruby Hughes
Orchestra Of The Age Of Enlightenment
George Frideric Handel
Vincenzo Ciampi
Thomas Augustine Arne

John Christopher Smith
Philip Hayes

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Recording & Production

This album features several premiere recordings of works by Vincenzo Ciampi, John Christopher Smith, and Philip Hayes, edited by David Vickers.

Composer Biography

Giulia Frasi, the soprano featured on this album, made her operatic debut in Lodi in 1740 and came to Britain in autumn 1742.

Critical Reception

Early in her London career, Giulia Frasi's singing was described by her friend Charles Burney, a music historian, as 'sweet and clear' but 'cold and unimpassioned'.

Performer Biography

Ruby Hughes, the soprano on this recording, was a recipient of a Borletti-Buitoni Trust Award and winner of both First Prize and the Audience Prize at the 2009 London Handel Singing Competition.

Historical Context

Giulia Frasi regularly performed in charity concerts, including annual performances of Handel's Messiah at the Foundling Hospital and events for the 'Fund for Decay'd Musicians or Their Families'.

Composer Biography

George Frideric Handel, the famous Baroque composer, expressed skepticism about Giulia Frasi's work ethic, remarking 'Oh vaat may we not expect!' when she said she would study hard.

Composer Biography

Giulia Frasi's ability to sing articulately in English attracted the attention of George Frideric Handel, who then recruited her as his principal soprano soloist.