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Review by JJ November 20, 2007 (3 of 5 found this review helpful)
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When Hændel started composing Solomon in 1748 he had just begun his great creative period which would result in such masterpieces as Susanna, Théodora and Jephta. The three-act oratorio Solomon is built on an anonymous book which manages to offer more than adequate poetry. “An author capable of writing flowing verse that adapt well to composing, frequently referring to comparisons full of flowers, birds and other elements in nature, valorizes the freshness of the musical inspiration” remarks Anthony Hicks in notes accompanying the recording. And indeed, Salomon takes place in a most pleasing flowing narrative, backed by music the composer built from different themes coming from earlier works, but also from Telemann and even Muffat. In this remarkable recording, Nicholas McGegan offers us the complete version of Hændel ’s work, and the surprise is laudatory. With a very harmonious group of soloists, an apt orchestra and a magnificent chorus, the English conductor seduces us by an undeniable narrative sense supported by inspired direction. Remarkably well recorded too, Hændel’s oratorio meets its match in this compelling performance that cannot be ignored. A fine and noteworthy undertaking.
Jean-Jacques Millo
Translation Lawrence Schulman
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