Handel: Judas Maccabaeus: See, the conqu'ring hero comes!

All tracks sung in German

The art of transcription has been a part of the history of keyboard instruments since the Renaissance period, a time that saw the first publishing of sacred as well as secular vocal works. In the 19th century, however, the trend entered its golden age, thus satisfying the domestic music-making appetite of the bourgeoisie across Europe and reflecting technological advances in mechanisms such as the organ. This release is dedicated towards this king of instruments, whose expansion into concert-like proportions allowed the music of Handel to flourish in particular.

The recording is based on a selection of the Baroque composer's most famous works, arranged by some of the 19th century's greatest organ virtuosos. As well as W.T. Best, who gave about 100 recitals a year for 40 years and who published two great collections -- of which Handel's Choruses, selected and arranged for the Organ is included here -- there features transcriptions by the likes of George C. Martin (organist of St Paul's Cathedral), F.C. Woods, Théodore Dubois (organist at the Madeleine in Paris) and Alexandre Guilmant (organist of Saint-Trinité in paris and a noted concert performer). The two symphonies of Saul, Zadok the Priest and excerpts from the Messiah are just some of the works contained on this engaging release.

Performed by Massimo Gabba at the Mascioni organ of the Church of San Giovanni Evangelista in Alessandri (Italy), Romantic Organ Transcriptions details a fascinating area of 19th-century music-making and exposes the predilection for all things Baroque at that time. Gabba explores the full gamut of the instrument, revealing the immense variety of timbres and characteristic grandeur that the organ came to attain during the 1800s.

Music has always played a pivotal role in the coronation of British monarchs. The 20th century saw major works composed for the occasion by Parry for Edward VII in 1902, Elgar for George V in 1911, Walton for George VI in 1937, and most recently Walton for Elizabeth II in 1953. Handel was commissioned to supply four new works to be performed with music by Purcell, Tallis, Blow and Gibbons for George II’s coronation in 1727.

Of these works, one still forms part of the modern ceremony. Zadok the Priest, the shortest of the anthems, still has the power to surprise and thrill the listener, and must have had an electrifying effect upon those gathered in Westminster Abbey on 11 October 1727.

Recording made in 1984.

Booklet note and sung texts.

‘This is a most elegant version of these stirring works. The chorus, clear-set against the orchestra, moves with the same precision as the players, and Marriner’s control of the rhythmic groupings is a delight.’ Gramophone, November 1985

This stunning program of Baroque choral masterpieces comprises the best-loved moments from Handel’s oratorios and anthems, including ‘Zadok the Priest’ and the Hallelujah chorus. Solos from Alexander’s Feast and Athalia are sung by renowned Handel specialists Carolyn Sampson and Robin Blaze. The Bach Choir (which gave performances in Australia in 2008) is an institution in the golden British oratorio tradition, its musical directors including Ralph Vaughan Williams, Sir David Willcocks, and now David Hill, who conducts on this recording.

“the Bach Choir sing with appropriate vigour and spirit under David Hill’s enthusiastic direction…producing the obligatory tingle down the spine.” Gramophone