Episode 2

Donald Macleod explores Handel's oratorios, focusing on the accidental conception of the English oratorio.

Esther (excerpt from Sc 2)
The Sixteen
The Symphony of Harmony and Invention
Harry Christophers (conductor)
Coro COR16019, CD 1, Tr 12

Esther (excerpts from Sc 2)
Ahasuerus ...... Tom Randle (tenor)
Esther ...... Lynda Russell (soprano)
Haman ...... Michael George (bass)
The Sixteen
The Symphony of Harmony and Invention
Harry Christophers (conductor) Coro COR16019 CD 2, Trs 15-19

Deborah (1733) - excerpt from Act 3, Sc 2
Abinoam ...... Michael George (bass)
Barak ...... James Bowman (coutertenor)
Jael and An Israelite Woman ...... Susan Gritton (mezzo-soprano)
Deborah ...... Yvonne Kenny (soprano)
Choir of New College, Oxford
Edward Higginbottom (director)
The King's Consort
Robert King (conductor)
Hyperion CDA66841/2, CD 2, Trs 21-29

Athalia (Act 1, Sc 3)
Athalia ...... Joan Sutherland (soprano)
Mathan ...... Anthony Rolfe Johnson (tenor)
Abner ...... David Thomas (bass)
Choir of New College, Oxford
Edward Higginbottom (chorus master)
The Academy of Ancient Music
Christopher Hogwood (conductor)
Decca 475 207-2, CD 1, Trs 7-12.