Handel: Messiahby Anonymous

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December 14, 2002: Its hard to give this recording 5 stars, but its closer to five than four so five it is. I have very few complaints about this recording. But here they are: often tempos are too fast. I understand the work is long, but there should never be "lets get this one over with" feeling. In particular, the pastorale symphony is probably played in cut time. The trumpet in the final chorus is far too loud - this may be the conductor's choice, but I hardly think so. I play trumpet so I noticed it right away. "The trumpet shall sound" however, was superb. The soloists are very good. I enjoy each one so much! I recently went to a performance in my city and the soloists there did not match the same intensity and musicality of the recording - save the tenor. I recommend this recording to anyone. It really is nicely organized and the quality of musicianship is excellent. Go Handel!