Handel - Jephtha | (johannes Somary) (1995 [1969])

The recording uses modern instruments but incorporates baroque-influenced elements like varied da capo repeats and ornamentation, which were relatively progressive for 1969.

Because it was the first recording of Handel's final oratorio, it served as a primary reference for many listeners before the era of historically informed performance (HIP). Handel - Jephtha (Johannes Somary) (1995 [1969])

Collectors often look for the original 1969 vinyl for its high-quality stereo sound and the inclusion of detailed liner notes by Handel scholar Winton Dean. Handel: The Masterworks - GFHandel.org Handel: The Masterworks - GFHandel

Johannes Somary's 1969 recording of George Frideric Handel's oratorio (HWV 70) was a landmark release as the work's first complete recording . Originally released as a three-LP box set on the Vanguard Cardinal label (VCS-10077/8/9), it was later reissued on CD in 1995 under the Vanguard Classics "Everyman" series. Performance & Ensemble While modern listeners may find the orchestral and

The recording features the and the Amor Artis Chorale , conducted by Johannes Somary. While modern listeners may find the orchestral and choral style slightly "old-fashioned" compared to modern period-instrument recordings, the interpretation is noted for its dramatic energy and sensitivity. Cast List

Critics often single out Maureen Forrester's performance as Hamor and Alexander Young’s authoritative Jephtha as highlights.

The recording is highly regarded for its powerhouse vocal cast, many of whom were leading Handel specialists of the era: Alexander Young Iphis (Soprano): Reri Grist Storgé (Contralto): Helen Watts Hamor (Contralto): Maureen Forrester Zebul (Bass): John Lawrenson Angel (Boy Soprano): Simon Woolf Harpsichord: Harold Lester Critical Reception

The recording uses modern instruments but incorporates baroque-influenced elements like varied da capo repeats and ornamentation, which were relatively progressive for 1969.

Because it was the first recording of Handel's final oratorio, it served as a primary reference for many listeners before the era of historically informed performance (HIP).

Collectors often look for the original 1969 vinyl for its high-quality stereo sound and the inclusion of detailed liner notes by Handel scholar Winton Dean. Handel: The Masterworks - GFHandel.org

Critics often single out Maureen Forrester's performance as Hamor and Alexander Young’s authoritative Jephtha as highlights.