About
"Israel in Egypt", reckoned to be Handel's greatest oratorio, relates the Bible story of Exodus. It paints a picture of the deliverance of the Israelites from servitude in Egypt in a masterpiece of dramatic choral writing and exciting orchestration. And dramatic it is, with both the words and the music conveying the series of disasters, "The Plagues", that befell Egypt, finally persuading the Egyptians to let the Israelites leave. It ends with joyous celebration and thanks to God for their freedom.
The title "Israel in Egypt" is contentious in these troubled times, but the tale it relates of migrant workers being abused and blamed for national problems is one that is, sadly, universal and for all time.
When Handel arrived in Britain he was already celebrated for his operas in Italy, but in England the Church authorities did not permit the staging of Bible stories, and thus the oratorio was born. These told a story purely by the use of music and words, with no costumes or sets.
Under the guidance of their musical director Alan Burgess, and with the support of a baroque orchestra and six soloists, this is possibly the most demanding concert Bradford on Avon Choral Society has performed in its thirty-nine year history. "Israel in Egypt" is an exciting work that amply demonstrates Handel's complete mastery of choral writing.
Wiltshire Music Centre, West Wiltshire
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