4.0 out of 5 stars
Mozart's Germanic version of Handel work is more subdued, but still beautiful!, April 2, 2011
This review is from: Handel - Acis und Galatea (Mozart version) (Audio CD)
This recording of Handel's Acis and Galatea (or Acis und Galatea) features the German translation and arrangement completed by Mozart in Vienna circa 1788, per the instructions of the Baron Gottfried von Swieten to "modernize" Handel's pieces - including Alexander's Feast, Messiah, Ode for St. Cecilia's Day, and Acis and Galatea. Mozart kept much of Handel's original string arrangements, but proceeded to layer harmonies with a degree of sophistication that Handel could only have dreamed of (quoting the author, Roger Hamilton, in the very informative enclosed booklet with the libretto).
Trevor Pinnock conducts the English Concert and Choir, using original instruments. It was digitally recorded in London in August, 1991. Pinnock's soloists - Barbara Bonney as Galatea, Jamie McDougall as Acis, John Tomlinson as Polyphem, and Markus Schaefer as Damon - are vocally adept and sing beautifully. The recording and performances sound ethereal and provide an intriguing and worthy addition to the Handel recording catalogue.
A recommendable recording and performance!
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