25 Handel Favorites

Minnesota orchestra has a Handel on things (2009-08-22) : 4/5
As would be expected, the lion's share of VOX's 25 HANDEL CLASSICS is taken from his three best-remembered works. Thus, there's 7 "Messiah samples, 6 "Water Music" excerpts and 5 "Royal Fireworks" highlights. For the casual listener, this format may be preferable to full works. br /br /As with all other titles in the series, liner notes are non-existent. Audio quality is uniformly good.br /br /PERFORMERS--br /Generically-named Philharmonia Chamber orchestra ("Messiah") are students of Rochester, NY's Eastman music school. Donald Neuman is one-time choral instructor at that institution. Their dry rendition of George Handel's most famous oratorio has all the earmarks of sincere amateur performance: accurate, yet devoid of emotional appeal.br /br /Compare these dubs to Minnesota orchestra's "Water Music." Nicely expressive throughout, the polish on display here epitomizes professionalism. The Minnesota also renders solid work on several "Fireworks" selections.br /br /Manhattan Chamber orchestra ("Silent Worship" and "Lascia ch'io Pianga") have been in exstence since 1987. Richard Auldon Clark is their original director/conductor. The unidentified alto on these tracks possesses a fine voice.br /br /Anthony Newman is not this reviewer's favorite organist (too choppy), so it's unfair to judge his B-flat major fugue. Newman accompanies New York Trumpet Ensemble on the "Judas Maccabaeus" march. Was unable to glean any info on this capable unit.br /br /South-west German Chamber Orchestra was founded in 1950 by a former Hindemith student. This fourteen member ensemble consists of musicians from many countries. They are quite good on their two D major concerto grosso samples.br /br /TOTAL PLAYING TIME: 79:47
Handel 25 Favorites (2009-02-15) : 5/5
I purchased this CD because I like to listen to Water Music and evenbr /have it as my ringtone. The other feature I enjoyed listening that came with this CD the vocal songs...Hallelujah Chorus and For unto us a Child is Born. Those who like classical music should add this to their collection. The only drawback is when it came to track two and three....br /Pastorale and Bourree I can't hardly hear it I have to increase the volume then lower it again because it will be too loud for the next track.
GREAT CD (2007-08-31) : 4/5
This a wonderfull Handel CD, a great mix of his songs both uptempo and sacred. I don't really know much about his works but i thought this cd as a casual fan of the artsist was a very good mix of songs.
25 Handel Favorites (2007-01-12) : 4/5
Absolutely what I expect of Handel! Good stuff, if this is your "bag".