Highlights from Handel's Solomon

The Radio Philharmonic Orchestra and the Netherlands Radio Choir perform highlights from Handel's Solomon. The beautiful cast of soloists includes Maarten Engeltjes, Shira Patchornik and Fabio Trümpy.

Handel's oratorio

The English oratorio was made successful by a composer of German origin: Georg Friedrich Handel. He lived and worked in London for many years. However, the Bishop of London forbade theatre productions based on biblical stories, and specifically Handel's work Esther. So Handel turned it into an oratorio, without scenery, actions or costumes, and with more choral parts. Apparently he liked it: Solomon was also given this form. Today, the Radio Philharmonic Orchestra and the Netherlands Radio Choir perform highlights from this masterpiece. Of course, the much-loved Arrival of the Queen of Sheba is not missing, which also became a classic on its own.

Netherlands Radio Choir and top soloists

In this concert, the Radio Philharmonic Orchestra and the Groot Omroepkoor, conducted by Peter Dijkstra, welcome a number of international top soloists. Countertenor Maarten Engeltjes sings the title role of Salomon, the king of Israel. He does so 'richly, clearly and radiantly', according to Bachtrack. In Solomon's case, great power comes with great wisdom, as Handel's oratorio makes clear. Sopranos Marie Lys and Shira Patchornik interpret the two 'mothers' who fight over one child, until Solomon threatens to split it in two. Tenor Fabio Trümpy and bass Ashley Riches are also part of the wonderful cast.