Search - Handel - Messiah (250th Anniversary Performance) plus FOR EVER AND EVER, a documentary on DVD

Disappointing

Teemacs | Switzerland | 02/18/2008

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Nev Marriner and the ASMF can usually be relied upon to produce a sparkling performance, and they and the ASMF Chorus do, in this Dublin performance to celebrate the first performance (in a long-disppeared venue in Fishamble Street). In particular, Mark Bennett, the trumpeter, playing a modern piccolo trumpet, produces the best trumpet part in "The trumpet shall sound" that I've ever heard, naturally far better than Valentine Snow could have played it with his natural trumpet.

So what's the problem? The tenor and bass soloists, that's what. Both are major disappointments. Especially with note runs of the "And I will sha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-(etc.)-ke". The notes are not clearly enunciated and just plain tuneless. It spoiled the whole thing for me.

For a really top DVD version of "Messiah", seek out the ABC (as in Australian Broadcasting Corporation) Shop, which is selling a an absolute knockout Downunder version as a CD/DVD package. I expected a Region 4 DVD (I have a code-free player), but the DVD appears code-free. The bass Teddy Tahu Rhodes is especially good (there are clips on YouTube)."

Handel's Messiah as it should be performed.

Maynard M. Sorensen | 10/07/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"An historical performance of the Messiah, as it should be performed, in the place it first took place. A must for all who enjoy this great classic."

Sir Neville Marriner rules!

D. Cassel | 01/21/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Marriner has, in my opinion, one of the best takes on Handel's Messiah. Professional performers and aggressive speed are just what the oratorio needs to show of its pure genius. The soloists are all impressive, and the DVD boasts a DTS soundtrack. So this is an excellent choice for any Messiah enthusiast.

PROS
lively and professional performance
good soloists
DTS soundtrack

CONS
none"