L'Allegro, il Penseroso ed il Moderato review dazzling opening to London Handel festival
Briefly

The London Handel Festival opened energetically under new artistic adviser Jonathan Cohen, featuring the baroque ensemble Arcangelo performing Handel's L'Allegro, il Penseroso ed il Moderato. This unique piece, combining Milton's poems with Shakespearean elements, showcases Handel's ability to create vivid imagery through music. Despite a hurried composition within 14 days, Cohen's thoughtful direction highlighted the ensemble's skills, with notable performances from the choir and soloists. The lively performance demonstrated a balance between dramatic instincts and musical expression, immersing the audience in Handel's playful yet complex narrative.
Cohen's artistic direction allowed Arcangelo to shine, demonstrating a commitment to bright tempos and room for singers alongside Handel's vivid score, performed energetically.
The choir's impressive power combined with individual performances offered a rich and dynamic portrayal of Handel's work, providing vibrant imagery and lively musicality.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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