Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

The London Handel Orchestra is a classical music ensemble that specializes in the works of George Frideric Handel. Founded in 1978 by conductor and harpsichordist Denys Darlow, the orchestra has become one of the leading interpreters of Handel's music in the world. Denys Darlow was a renowned Handel scholar and performer who had previously founded the Handel Opera Society in 1960. He saw the need for an orchestra that could perform Handel's instrumental music with the same level of expertise and authenticity as his operas. With this in mind, he assembled a group of musicians who shared his passion for Handel's music and formed the London Handel Orchestra. The orchestra's core members are drawn from some of the finest period instrument ensembles in Europe, including the Academy of Ancient Music, the English Baroque Soloists, and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. They are joined by guest soloists and conductors who are experts in the field of Baroque music. The London Handel Orchestra has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the world, including the Royal Albert Hall, the Barbican Centre, and the Wigmore Hall in London, as well as the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam and the Musikverein in Vienna. They have also appeared at major music festivals such as the Edinburgh International Festival, the Salzburg Festival, and the Handel Festival in Halle, Germany. One of the highlights of the London Handel Orchestra's career was their performance of Handel's Messiah at the Royal Albert Hall in 1994. This was a landmark event, as it was the first time that the work had been performed in its entirety on period instruments. The performance was hailed as a triumph, with critics praising the orchestra's "crisp, clear playing" and "impeccable sense of style." Another notable performance was their 2013 concert at the Wigmore Hall, which featured Handel's Water Music and Music for the Royal Fireworks. The concert was a celebration of the 300th anniversary of the Hanoverian succession, and was attended by members of the royal family. The orchestra's performance was described as "sparkling" and "joyful," with the musicians bringing out the full range of colors and textures in Handel's music. The London Handel Orchestra has also been recognized for their recordings of Handel's music. Their recording of Handel's Concerti Grossi, Op. 6 was awarded the Gramophone Award for Best Baroque Instrumental Recording in 1990. They have also recorded Handel's Water Music and Music for the Royal Fireworks, as well as his opera Ariodante. In addition to their performances and recordings, the London Handel Orchestra is committed to education and outreach. They regularly give masterclasses and workshops for young musicians, and have worked with schools and community groups to introduce people of all ages to the music of Handel. Overall, the London Handel Orchestra has established itself as one of the leading interpreters of Handel's music in the world. Their commitment to authenticity and excellence has earned them a reputation for being one of the finest period instrument ensembles in Europe. With their passion for Handel's music and their dedication to education and outreach, they are sure to continue inspiring audiences for years to come.

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